Charlotte Perkins Gilman discussed the position of women in society. It was particularly relevant when females had few rights, and males controlled them. The theme is significant in the 21st century, as men continue to discriminate against women.
Detailed answer:
The main character of The Yellow Wallpaper is a woman who narrates her dramatic story. She is expected to obey her husband and behave according to the standards, even though it is irrational. She has no right nor to express herself without being judged by the public. But she keeps a secret diary sharing her thoughts and emotions. The woman writes, “But I must say what I feel and think in some way – it is such a relief!” Regrettably, her secret journal is her only way to achieve self-expression. Thus, she gets insane.
Further, her husband has complete control over her. The woman’s words are worth nothing compared with his. She notes, “If one’s own husband, assures friends and relatives that there is really nothing the matter with one – what is one to do?” Gilman demonstrates unfair attitude to women’s rights, leading to adverse results. The narrator of The Yellow Wallpaper shares her thoughts and emotions, but they play no role. The woman suffers, and the author proved that women’s secondary position in society is not normal.