The Social Status of Women Depicted in the Short Story Vannangal Maṟuvadhillai

'வண்ணங்கள் மாறுவதில்லை' என்னும் சிறுகதை சித்தரிக்கும் பெண்களின் சமூக நிலை

Abstract

As Bharathiar states:
"When men and women are considered equal, knowledge will flourish and the world will prosper."

Following this idea, efforts to eliminate discrimination and achieve gender equality continue worldwide. However, true equality for women remains a question even today. Women, described as the moon (nilai), have reached remarkable achievements, yet the societal recognition and respect for women (eydaran) have not fundamentally changed.

Discrimination against women continues in various forms:

1. Discrimination at birth
2. Discrimination during upbringing
3. Economic discrimination

Certain qualities and virtues are often specifically associated with women, including beauty, gentleness, delicacy, sense of responsibility, sacrifice, patience, compassion, self-restraint, knowledge, lack of strength, and feelings of helplessness. Women’s value in society emerges from lived experiences in communal life, and literature often reflects these social realities. This article examines the social position of women as portrayed in the short story Vannangal Maṟuvadhillai, highlighting the challenges and inequalities they face despite their accomplishments and inherent virtues.