Gender Roles and Domestic Responsibility in Sachs' The Calf-Hatching Play
Overview
This essay analyzes gender dynamics and domestic roles in Hans Sachs' The Calf-Hatching Play, examining how the female protagonist Gretta bears all household responsibilities while her husband neglects his duties through alcoholism. The paper argues that the play critiques traditional gender expectations by demonstrating the consequences of male abandonment of familial responsibilities and female marital discord.
What this essay covers
- Analysis of Gretta's domestic responsibilities and her complaints regarding her husband's laziness and lack of support
- Examination of male roles in the household and how the husband fails to provide security, protection, and emotional care to his wife
- Discussion of consequences including female infidelity and marital breakdown resulting from male neglect
Preview
The Calf -Hatching
Student’s Name
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The Calf -Hatching
Question One
According to the author, Sachs, the wife is supposed to do all duties in the 'Calf Hatching Play.' Even though she is in a union, the husband does not support any task at home. All work is left to Gretta, who is the wife to do all tasks. Gretta has a lot of responsibilities like; going to shop in the market, collecting eggs, preparing food, and letting pigs move out. Gretta is always complaining because of the laziness of her husband, but the latter is not amused. At some point, Gretta wishes she is not married to the husband as she mumbles and wishes the devil would harm her husband (Sachs, 1990). In the play, women are supposed to respect their husbands, and Gretta does all that. According to the reading, however, Gretta is abusive towards her husband, and that is a scene of misbehaving.
Question Two
The play suggests that males should be at the forefront of standing in their homes. According to the author, men should protect their wives and give security to their homes. Security should come through fending for their families and wives. However, that is not the case within the play as males have abandoned their roles. A male like Sachs has turned to heavy drinking, thereby neglecting his roles. A male head in a household should be responsible and take care of his wife and family.