The Purpose of Including Dogs in The Chrysanthemums

Symbolism

One of the primary functions of the dogs in John Steinbeck’s short story, “The Chrysanthemums,” is their symbolic representation of the relationship between Elisa and the tinker. Elisa’s dogs are depicted as strong and intelligent, reflecting Elisa’s own robustness and wit in contrast to the tinker[2]. The dogs serve as a symbol of Elisa’s inner feelings and desires, as well as her inability to effectively communicate them. They are the only witnesses to Elisa’s emotional struggles[3].

Power Dynamics

The interaction between Elisa’s dogs and the tinker’s dog highlights the power dynamics at play in the story. Elisa’s dogs are portrayed as superior to the tinker’s mongrel, emphasizing Elisa’s intellectual and emotional superiority over the traveling tinker. However, despite her capabilities, Elisa ultimately succumbs to the tinker’s charm and pays him for a job she could have done herself. This power dynamic is subtly revealed through the portrayal of the dogs[1][2].

Desire for Adventure

The presence of dogs in the narrative also reflects Elisa’s yearning for a life beyond her role as a housewife. The dogs act as quiet reminders of her deep-seated desire to escape and experience adventure. While Elisa never fully acts on her desires, the dogs serve as a symbol of her unfulfilled aspirations and her longing for something more in life[3].

In conclusion, the inclusion of dogs in “The Chrysanthemums” serves multiple purposes within the story. Through symbolism, the dogs represent the relationship between Elisa and the tinker, highlighting power dynamics and Elisa’s unexpressed desires. They act as silent witnesses to Elisa’s inner struggles and serve as a reminder of her yearning for a different life. By examining the role of dogs in the story, readers gain a deeper understanding of the themes and complexities presented by John Steinbeck.

FAQs

The Purpose of Including Dogs in “The Chrysanthemums”

Why are dogs included in the story “The Chrysanthemums”?

The dogs are included in the story to serve as symbols, representing various aspects of the protagonist’s inner world and desires.

What do the dogs symbolize in “The Chrysanthemums”?

The dogs symbolize the relationship between Elisa and the tinker, power dynamics between characters, and Elisa’s longing for adventure and escape from her role as a housewife.

How do the dogs reflect power dynamics in the story?

The dogs reflect power dynamics by emphasizing Elisa’s intellectual and emotional superiority over the tinker’s mongrel, despite her ultimate submission to the tinker’s charm.

What do the dogs represent in terms of Elisa’s desires?

The presence of the dogs represents Elisa’s deep-seated desire for adventure and a life beyond her current role as a housewife.

How do the dogs contribute to the symbolism in “The Chrysanthemums”?

The dogs act as silent witnesses to Elisa’s emotional struggles and unexpressed desires, reinforcing the symbolic representation of her inner feelings throughout the story.

What purpose do the dogs serve in “The Chrysanthemums” in relation to communication?

The dogs represent Elisa’s inability to effectively communicate her inner feelings and desires, as they are the only ones aware of her emotional struggles.

Do the dogs play a significant role in Elisa’s character development?



Yes, the dogs contribute to Elisa’s character development by highlighting her yearning for something more in life and her internal conflict between societal expectations and personal desires.

How do the dogs enhance the reader’s understanding of the themes in “The Chrysanthemums”?

By examining the role of dogs, readers gain a deeper understanding of themes such as power dynamics, societal constraints, and the human longing for fulfillment and self-expression.