Herland: Rationlism and quotes

     In Herland, the idea of a woman being completely controlled by a man is evident through many excerpts  such as this one… “We do not allow our women to work. Women are loved—idolized—honored—kept in the home to care for the children.” “What is ‘the home’?” asked Somel a little wistfully. Zava begged: “Tell me first, do no women work, really?” “Why, yes,” Terry admitted. “Some have to, of the poorer sort.  The word choice such as “allowed” and “kept” are controlling words that shows the mans power over the woman. These words go against the domestic way of thinking which the Herlandians believe in. Next, rationalism is shown were because each man is telling one another ones reason for what he believes in. 

      This passage from chapter five shows the uncertainty among the men on what it means for a woman to be “normal” Each man rationalizes their point of view which makes the relationship between men and woman seem normal to the others views. Lastly, this idea of explaining logic is a form of rationalism which we studied in American Literature and played a big role in developing the story of Herland.