Washington Irving’s short story “The Wife,” is what I would call a true American love story. There is a well known idea that circulates our society that the men are the providers and protectors and the women work “backstage” most of the time but when the man is in need of support, his wife is right there to consul him. I can relate to this in my own relationship, even a military man needs a hug once in awhile. However what is inspiring about this story is the humility and sincerity of the couple that is rare to find in couples of our time. Our American values have changed a lot when it comes to marriage because I have seen marriages fall apart because the man can no longer keep the family at a financial level so the woman will go, leaving her wedding vows behind. As this story conveys beautifully, Leslie’s wife stands by him with a smile and adapts to the situation. This is difficult for modern day women since they believe they don't need a man to take care of them all the time. Women of our day are very independent, I myself am one of them, but I understand the partnership that comes with a relationship. You never leave your partner behind; you stick it out together, for better or worse. I see the inspiring values of trust, humility and patience in this story lost to our society.
"Marriage is not a simple love affair, it's an ordeal, and the ordeal is the sacrifice of ego to a relationship in which two have become one."- Joseph Campbell
"Marriage is not a simple love affair, it's an ordeal, and the ordeal is the sacrifice of ego to a relationship in which two have become one."- Joseph Campbell
Great quote from Joseph Campbell! So what are the American values Irving is preaching in this story?
ReplyDeleteThe values I see him preaching in this story is the dedication of a wife and she is to be an accessory to him, but in a good way! In a beautiful way he portrays the duties an American wife should perform. She is the power behind the man, just like Abigail Adams was to John Adams
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