Table of ContentsJohn's role as patriarchJohn's misdiagnosis and ineffective treatmentThe symbolic representation of JohnConclusionJohn is a central character in “The Yellow Wallpaper” by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, and her role in the story is crucial to understanding the narrator's descent into madness. This essay will explore the complexities of John's character and describe how his actions and beliefs contribute to the narrator's deteriorating mental state. By analyzing different aspects of John's behavior, attitudes, and treatment towards the narrator, we can better understand the themes and messages conveyed in the story. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay John's Role as Patriarch One of the key aspects of John's character is his role as patriarch. As the narrator's husband and a doctor, John holds significant power and control over her life. He imposes his authority by prescribing a “rest cure” for her alleged nervous illness, confining her to a room with barred windows and forbidding her from any stimulating activity. This oppressive treatment reflects the societal norms of the time, where women were expected to be submissive and obedient to their male counterparts. This patriarchal dynamic is evident in John's dismissive attitude toward his wife's concerns. Despite her calls for a change of environment or more stimulating activities, John dismisses her desires as mere "fantasies" and insists that he knows what is best for her. His condescending tone and refusal to recognize her as his equal exacerbates the narrator's feelings of isolation and helplessness, ultimately contributing to his psychological decline. John's Misdiagnosis and Ineffective Treatment In addition to his patriarchal behavior, John's role as a doctor is also crucial to the story. However, it becomes apparent that he is not competent to diagnose or treat his wife's condition. John's belief in the effectiveness of the rest cure, which involves complete physical and mental inactivity, reflects medical practices of the time. Unfortunately, this treatment only worsens the narrator's mental state. John's ignorance and arrogance in ignoring the narrator's concerns and desires for more stimulating activities prevent her from receiving the proper care she needs. This highlights the detrimental effects of the medical profession's ignorance and lack of understanding at the time regarding mental health. By relying on outdated and ineffective treatments, John inadvertently contributes to the narrator's descent into madness. The Symbolic Representation of John Beyond his role as patriarch and doctor, John also serves as a symbolic representation of the oppressive and restrictive nature of society. Her character embodies the societal expectations placed on women in the late 19th century, where their desires and aspirations were often suppressed in favor of completing domestic tasks. The yellow wallpaper present in the room where the narrator is confined becomes a powerful symbol of her own oppression. . John's dismissive attitude toward her concerns reflects the societal rejection of women's voice and agency. The narrator's obsession with the wallpaper, which gradually takes on a more sinister and oppressive presence, symbolizes her growing awareness of the stifling nature of her societal role.ConclusionIn conclusion, the character of John in "The Yellow Wallpaper " plays an important role in the deterioration of the mental state of the. 193-201.