During the history of mankind, women have been often regarded as inferior to men. Consequently, many women have audaciously strived to liberate themselves from this long-standing prejudice, and highlighted the female ideal of independence. John Steinbeck's short story, "The Chrysanthemums" reflects the struggles of a stereotyped woman of the time, Elisa Allen to find her own identity in the oppressive world of men. First, Elisa is isolated and constrained in a masculine world. The description …showed first 75 words of 919 total…

…showed last 75 words of 919 total…weakly- like an old woman." To conclude, John Steinbeck's short story, through the protagonist, Elisa Allen illustrates women's efforts to explore the life beyond the traditional standards. Elisa is desperately searching for appreciation, and goes to great lengths to achieve her aspirations. Regrettably, her desires for equality are not granted due to the discrimination based on her sex. The time has not come yet; and she has to let go of her dreams for liberation.