Jane Gilman The Rest Cure Analysis

In Gilman's short story, the treatment Jane underwent through her diagnosis was referred to as the rest cure, which was made popular by the well-respected physician Dr. Silas Weir Mitchell, back in the 19th century. The rest cure typically “ranged from six weeks to three months.” (Linker) In order for the rest cure to be effective one would have to do all of the following: “live as domestic a life as far as possible,” “have but two hours intellectual life a day,” and “never to touch (a) pen, brush, or pencil again as long as” (Gilman) one lived. This treatment limited Jane to nearly every activity imaginable. She was forbidden from writing, which was something she enjoyed very much. Due to all the requirements the rest cure asked for, Jane
spent most of her time in a room where the yellow wallpaper it had, began to come alive and horrifyingly taunt her as her treatment progressed.