Gender is a central theme to "Sweat," like the big, scaly snake that Sykes brings back to the house—you simply can't ignore it. In the 1920s American south, being a woman meant you'd most likely face a lifetime of prejudice, restrictions and discrimination. Given this historical context, we can see what makes Delia such a remarkable and powerful character. Not only is she able to survive her gender-based oppression, she's able to triumph. Now that's what we call girl power—you go, Delia! Beyoncé would be proud.
Questions About Gender
- Why do you think the only woman with dialogue in "Sweat" is Delia Jones? What effect does that have on you as a reader?
- How would you categorize or describe Bertha? What sort of women is she?
- What do the men do in "Sweat"?
- Do you think Delia Jones is an exceptional woman, given the historical context (1920's rural American south) of the story?
Chew on This
Try on an opinion or two, start a debate, or play the devil’s advocate.
Differences in gender continue because both men and women allow it.
Delia Jones standing up to Sykes is a revolutionary move for both the 1920s and today.