RUTH’S STRUGGLES FOR FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE IN FANNY FERN’S RUTH HALL: A FEMINIST STUDY

Abstract

Abstract
This study aimed to identify the kinds of problem that constrain Ruth to be
financially independent and to analyze her struggles to gain her financial independence
in dealing with the problems that she faces. This study was a qualitative research
employing content analysis method. The first result of the research was the problems that
constrain Ruth to be financially independent. They were (1) stereotype: being stereotyped
as weak, being stereotyped as domestic, and being stereotyped as spoiled due to her
family’s wealth; (2) marginalization: being underestimated and being discouraged; and
(3) subordination: unfair treatment between sons and daughters and the assumption that
women do not deserve high education. The second result was related to Ruth’s struggles
to gain her financial independence. They were (1) trying hard to get a job: applying for
needle work, applying for a teacher, and applying for a columnist; and (2) working hard
to prove her ability: working as a contributor, working as a columnist, and working as a
writer.

Keywords: financial independence, women’s struggle, Ruth Hall.