The traditional role of women in American society transformed as society moved toward sexual equality. In the past, women were expected to be subservient to men and were considered homemakers rather than providers. Modern women enjoy the freedom of individuality and are considered as capable as men in many ways. John Steinbeck's short story, "The Chrysanthemums," portrays a woman's struggle to accept her life and her role as a woman (459). Through the main female character, Elisa Allen, and the symbolism of chrysanthemums, Steinbeck shows the gender roles that defined past generations of women's lives in the United States. Elisa Allen embodies the image of a simple woman eager to escape the confines of a gender. defined role in society. Readers are introduced to Elisa as a strong 35-year-old woman who lives with her husband, Henry, on a ranch in the Salinas Valley (Steinbeck 460). Elisa's masculinity is highlighted from the clothing she wears to the strength in her hands. Henry states that Elisa is capable in her endeavors when he states, “you have a gift with things,” regarding her garden (Steinbeck 460). Although Elisa is happy with Henry's suggestion that they work in the orchard, the idea does not seem to get a second thought (Steinbeck 460). The idea of ​​a woman working in the orchard is rejected on the premise that the orchard is not a place for women. In Elisa's tale with the man in the wagon, her sexuality exudes in her graphic explanation of picking flower buds and being under the stars, to the point that she almost physically touches the man (Steinbeck 463). His desire would remain unfulfilled, as it would not be appropriate for him to act on his impulse. Elisa is looking for fulfillment in life but finds her role banal. Intrigued by the idea of ​​traveling, as the gentleman in the wagon does, she states: “It must be very beautiful. I wish women could do these things. She is shot down when the man responds, “That's not the right kind of life for a woman” (Steinbeck 464). This conversation clearly depicts the prevailing inequality between genders. Furthermore, once the man leaves with the trailer, Elisa solidifies her need for something more, gazing at the horizon while whispering, “This is a brilliant direction. There's a glow there" (Steinbeck 464-465).