They are often physically trapped. For instance, in some gothic stories, they are locked in towers or old castles against their will.
Psychologically, they are made to feel powerless. The spooky and often dangerous settings, along with the menacing male characters, make them feel constantly on edge and unable to control their own fates. This is evident in many classic gothic novels where the female characters are haunted by their fears and insecurities.
In crime fiction, female victims are often portrayed as vulnerable. They are frequently depicted as being in the wrong place at the wrong time. For example, in many classic detective stories, a female victim might be found alone in a dark alley or an isolated place, which makes her an easy target for the criminal. This portrayal sometimes reinforces gender stereotypes of women as being less able to defend themselves.
Women as art in Gothic novels can also be seen in their passivity. They are like still, beautiful objects. They are often placed in grand, dark settings, such as old castles or gloomy mansions, which enhance their artistic quality. They are frequently the object of male gaze, much like a piece of art is observed. Their actions and emotions are sometimes subdued, adding to this sense of them being an aesthetic object within the story.
In gothic novels, females are frequently shown as mysterious and having a hidden past that adds to the intrigue. They might also be portrayed as being trapped in oppressive situations, both physically and emotionally.
Female characters in novels can be portrayed in various ways. Often, they are shown as kind and nurturing, like the mother figures in many family - centered novels. Some are depicted as strong and independent, for example, Katniss Everdeen in 'The Hunger Games' who takes on a leadership role in a harsh and dangerous world.
They are also shown as strong in their own ways. Eustacia in 'The Return of the Native' is a complex figure. She has her own desires and dreams, and she tries to break free from the constraints of her small - town life, although her actions may lead to her downfall in the end.
They can be portrayed as strong and independent. In many light novels, female characters born as such are not just damsels in distress but have their own goals and agency.
They are often portrayed as strong and intelligent. For example, in 'The Hunger Games', Katniss Everdeen is a very capable female character. She is skilled in archery and survival skills, and she has to fight in a brutal game. This shows that female characters in science - fiction can be as tough as male characters.
They are often portrayed as strong - willed. Since they had to break through the barriers of a male - dominated medical field in Victorian times, they are shown as determined in the novels. They don't let the social norms stop them from practicing medicine.
In WWII fiction, female characters are often portrayed as strong and resilient. They might be nurses on the front lines, like in some stories where they face the horrors of war while tending to the wounded. They can also be resistance fighters, using their wits to undermine the enemy.
They are often portrayed as self - centered. For instance, many greedy characters will put their own desires above the needs of others, like the Duke in 'The Duchess of Malfi' who desires power and control over the Duchess so much that he is willing to do immoral things.