Big Question:
During the hardship of a loved one passing, how does the southern culture play into the characteristics of the two main characters, Laurel and Fay?
What was going on Post WWII?
The Optimist's Daughteri was set shortly after World War II had ended. During this time in the United States, gender roles were very strict. Men were to be the breadwinners, work every day, hunt, and bring home enough money take take care of him and his family. Women were to stay at home, take care of their children, clean the home, make meals, and do laundry. Laurel's husband passed away while fighting in WWII, therefore she had to go and make a life for herself after he was gone. Even though she had proven herself to be a true southener, Laurel had to move north to Chicago because that was where she could go to make enough money to have a decent life ("Women").
Laurel, the Southener
Fay, the Non-Southener
The south is known for warm hospitality. After Laurel's father's death, she is surrounded by friends and family from Mississippi that comfort her with kind words, love, support, and home cooked meals. Throughout the novel, Laurel expresses the following "southener" personality traits:
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-strong
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-filled with common sense
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-independent
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-classy
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-calm
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level-headed
​These are possessed as regional culture traits for "southern" states.
Whether or not the state of Texas is a "southern" state is debatable, however, Fay's action and personality persuades the audience that Texas is not considered a southern state. After her husband's death, she was hostile towards all love and support that was provided to her. Throughout the novel, Fay expresses the following "non-southern" personality traits:
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-naive
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-vain
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-vulgar
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-selfish
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-stupid
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-dependent on McKelva
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-from a dirty & crass state
Word Count: 254