The battle of the sexes continues in the mother's revolt “Unsolicited opportunities are the Lord's guides to the new roads of life. » This quote from "The Rebellion of the Mother" by Mary E. Wilkins Freeman illustrates the independent and rebellious spirit of the main character, Sarah Penn. Because Sarah Penn's behavior is unorthodox for a 19th century woman, the author constantly compares her to similar historical figures. When Mrs. Penn makes her husband's favorite tartlets, we become aware of the first historical relationship. The author described his face as "full of gentle vigor which might have characterized one of the New Testament saints." The author continues to express that "whatever deep resentment she might be forced to feel toward her husband, she would never fail to give diligent attention to his desires." These statements show that Sarah is as loyal, passive, and loving as a pious saint. The simile also highlights her forgiving nature which allows her to be loving and cooperative with her husband despite the differences they may have. The second reference to a historical figure occurs when Sarah calls Adoniram, her husband, to stop his work and speak with her. When he repeatedly refuses to speak to her, she exclaims, “Father, you come here,” in a voice full of authority. Even her stance is as regal as her inflections, as she stands in the doorway, holding her head as if wearing a crown. Despite his initial intentions, this dignified behavior does not last long. As she expresses her feelings about her husband's new barn, her position transforms into that of a humble woman drawn from Scripture. This sudden change in behavior represents her volatile middle of paper...man's world, she continues to do her feminine and domestic duties and does her best to make Adoniram happy. This proves that she fought the battle and was now ready to make peace. However, the restoration of peace must fall to Adoniram. After Adoniram discovers his wife's defiance, he goes out at dusk and looks at the fields. By observing nature, Adoniram recognizes the power and beauty of women, which allows him to decide to erect the partitions to make a more suitable home for Sarah. By respecting his wife's feelings and opinions, he unites the woman's home and the man's technology and, in a sense, brings peace between man and woman in the battle of the sexes. Work Cited Freeman, Mary E. Wilkins. "The revolt of the 'Mother'". Respond to literature. Ed. Judith A. Stanford. Mountain View: Mayfield, 1996. 555-567.