How we cite our quotes: (Section.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"I'd give anything if I could just get these muscles to where they're real hard." (1.2)
Norma Jean's desire for a rock-hard bod is an example of her assuming a more masculine gender role. Remember folks—this story was written long before the days of CrossFit.
Quote #2
"That's what a woman would do." (2.17)
Mabel's emasculating attack on Leroy for doing something conventionally feminine highlights his taking on a more conventionally feminine role in the marriage. He used to bring home the bacon, but now he's sitting at home sewing. Mabel is not pleased.
Quote #3
"She has graduated from her six-week body-building course and now she is taking an adult-education course in composition at Paducah Community College." (5.1)
Getting brainier and brawnier is another way that Norma Jean breaks out of her Southern belle shell and takes on a more masculine role. You go, girl.