The Little Black Classics Yellow Wallpaper

by Charlotte Perkins Gilman

 The Yellow Wallpaper  is a compelling exploration of psychological distress, gender roles, and the oppressive nature of societal expectations in the late 19th century. Charlotte Perkins Gilman critiques the medical and domestic constraints imposed on women, illustrating the devastating consequences of enforced passivity and isolation. Through the protagonist's descent into obsession and madness, the story exposes the dangers of silencing female agency and the pervasive impact of patriarchal control. 

 Since its publication, The Yellow Wallpaper has been celebrated for its psychological depth and symbolic richness. Its exploration of themes such as mental health, autonomy, and the struggle against systemic oppression has solidified its place as a seminal work of feminist literature. The protagonist's haunting narrative and her gradual unraveling continue to resonate with readers, shedding light on the historical and ongoing challenges faced by women. 

 The story's enduring relevance lies in its ability to capture the intersection of mental illness and societal repression, offering a powerful critique of medical paternalism and gender-based constraints. By depicting the protagonist's inner turmoil and her desperate attempt to assert control over her own reality, The Yellow Wallpaper invites readers to reflect on the broader implications of autonomy, self-expression, and the consequences of ignoring individual needs. 

Genres: Short Stories, Classics, Horror

64 pages, Mass Market Paperback

Expected publication January 1, 2035

About the author

Charlotte Perkins Gilman (1860-1935), also known as Charlotte Perkins Stetson, was a prominent American sociologist, novelist, writer of short stories, poetry, and nonfiction, and a lecturer for social reform. She was a utopian feminist during a time when her accomplishments were exceptional for women, and she served as a role model for future generations of feminists because of her unorthodox concepts and lifestyle. Her best remembered work today is her semi-autobiographical short story, "The Yellow Wallpaper", which she wrote after a severe bout of post-partum depression.

She was the daughter of Frederic B. Perkins.

Reviews

[Vim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Female rage satisfied.

[jenna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shes a genius. I loved the themes behind " the rocking chair" so much, how the great unknowns mystique can capture our attention and energy, overriding our current deep passions because "what if?" On a sadder note, that story is also a commentary on how men feel entitled to whatever they want, treating women like objects, and leaving everything a wreck in their feat of getting what they desire. The synonymous communication of a good story and advocation exists in all of Gilman's writings and is such a treat!!! This book is little, but I feel extremely satisfied with what I read. I'm gonna go browse thrift books in the Charlotte Perkins Gilman category 👀...

[khokha · Rating 4 out of 5]

the yellow wallpaper: gaslight
the rocking chair: gatekeep
old water: girlboss

[Silvana Martins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Em poucas páginas temos acesso a uma história carregada de significado e de mensagens escondidas. Foi uma excelente surpresa.

[Charlotte Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely insane! Short, but yet there is so much to unpack within this, especially the contrast of the physical and the internal, her patriarchal conditioning and also the female stereotypes addressed within. The gothic and psychological prose is so engaging and fascinating to watch as the narrator slowly breaks free from her marriage, but is ultimately trapped within her own mind and hyper fixation, as well as being trapped within the domestic sphere of the home.

[Miri]

starts off strong (with a classic for English literature students) and only gets better :)
Charlotte Perkins Gilman writes about the true horror for women - domestic life and men.
a slap in the face for the tradwife movement (amongst other things)

[Z · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gothic horror, love it

[gabriela · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐

[Wallflower · Rating 4 out of 5]

Muito bom. Tem toda a crítica da mulher na sociedade, mas estou com preguiça de falar sobre isso agora.