Sexism and feminism in 1950s and 60s America

Garnus paints a picture of middle-class white women’s struggles in mid-20th century America through the experiences of her protagonist, Elizabeth. Elizabeth’s friendships, career, and dating life are all impacted by sexism. The obstacles she faces ultimately inspire her to advocate for women’s rights through her work and in her private life.

Right off the bat, Garnus introduces the theme of feminism by contrasting Calvin’s petty grudges with Elizabeth’s more serious ones: “Elizabeth Zott held grudges too. Except her grudges were mainly reserved for a patriarchal society founded on the idea that women were less. Less capable. Less intelligent. Less inventive. A society that believed men went to work and did important things—discovered planets, developed products, created laws—and women stayed at home and raised children. She didn’t want children—she knew...