Herland Chapter Summary & Analysis - Chapter 9, "Our Relations and Theirs" Summary

Chapter 9, "Our Relations and Theirs" Summary

The men's ideas about relationships are difficult to convey to these women, although they try. The women are not receptive to the concept of forming an individual home with their male partners. Terry explains that women take care of the home and the children. This is their work. The idea of staying home sounds like imprisonment to them. Terry becomes bored with Herland and its lack of vices. There is no smoking and no drinking. Terry's occasional late night attempts at wandering or escape are always thwarted by the Colonels. The men's freedom is still limited. Terry complains that the society is too perfect. There remains nothing to accomplish. Their literary drama is also limited as there is no sexual motivation, jealousy, or bloodlust. Jeff enjoys the harmonious perfection of Herland and Vandyck occupies himself with his sociological studies.

Vandyck learns more about the fundamental philosophy that governs Herland. The...
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