Steven Dunlap answers “I'm 80 pages in - - this was written in...”

Jennifer asked this question about Mila 18:

I'm 80 pages in - - this was written in the 60s for obviously a male audience - - but anyone else in 2019 finding the overpowering masculinity and total objectification of women a problem? Also - - do brothers really slap their sister's behinds? 'Cause ew. I kind of feel like Im reading Gone with the Wind, trying to read over the blatant misogyny.

Steven Dunlap Sadly that was the nature of the times -- both the 1960s when Uris wrote the book and even more so the 1940s when the story takes place. The phrase "p…moreSadly that was the nature of the times -- both the 1960s when Uris wrote the book and even more so the 1940s when the story takes place. The phrase "products of their time" comes to mind and reading a novel like this does remind us that total objectification of women and blatant misogyny (by 21st century standards) are not that far behind us. If you tough it out beyond the first 80-100 pages you will see how telling the story of women who fought the German Army in front-line combat helped to dispel stereotypes and sexist tropes. (less)

flag

About Goodreads Q&A

Ask and answer questions about books!

You can pose questions to the Goodreads community with Reader Q&A, or ask your favorite author a question with Ask the Author.

See Featured Authors Answering Questions

Learn more