The Role Of Discrimination In Eugenia Phelan

Often Eugenia Phelan, or more commonly known as Skeeter, responds to discrimination in an aggressive and very firm way. This is shown in the novel when Charlotte Phelan, Skeeter's mother and Skeeter herself are talking in their home. Charlotte begins pressing Skeeter with questions about her personal life. She was confronting Skeeter about why she had not gone on any dates recently, and was questioning whether or not she wanted a husband at all. Upon her this, Charlotte then accused Skeeter of being lesbian. When Mrs. Phelan made this statement, Skeeter reacted accordingly. Skeeter becomes very upset, and wildy begins verbally attacking her mother, ensuring her that was an inappropriate question to ask, (Taylor). Skeeter believes that she
is an independant woman, and does not need a man or husband in her life. She believes that she can do just fine on her own, and support herself throughout her life. Skeeter also illustrates the notion that women can do things just as good as men, and they do not necessarily need another person in their life, such as a husband or to be successful and thrive in society. Skeeter also expresses her attitude towards discrimination other ways in the film.