Another motive could be power. In a social or domestic context, the older woman may feel a need to assert her power over the younger one. By seducing the young housewife, she gains control over her actions and decisions, and this gives her a sense of superiority. Also, it could be about companionship. Maybe the older woman is lonely and sees the young housewife as someone who can fill that void in her life.
Honestly, this is a rather specific and somewhat unusual theme. There may be some independent or less - known short stories or indie films that explore this, but they are not widely known. You could try searching in specialized literature or film databases that focus on more diverse or edgy themes, but it's going to be a difficult search as it's not a common trope in mainstream media.
Power and control can also be motives. The older woman may enjoy the feeling of having influence over the young girl. She can shape the girl's views, tastes, and experiences, like in a relationship where she decides what they do and how the girl should behave, which gives her a sense of power.
Yes, there are some books and movies that feature such relationships. For example, in some slice - of - life dramas, an older woman might be a neighbor to a young housewife. They could start with simple interactions like sharing recipes or gardening tips. This can then develop into a deeper friendship where the older woman offers advice based on her life experiences, helping the young housewife navigate through challenges in her marriage, family, or personal growth.
In a particular story, an older woman is a great gardener. A young housewife who has just moved into a new house with a garden is clueless about gardening. The older woman takes her under her wing. She shows her how to plant different flowers and vegetables, how to take care of the soil. This relationship not only helps the young housewife create a beautiful garden but also gives her a new passion and a friendship that enriches her life.
In 'The Price of Salt' by Patricia Highsmith, there is a complex relationship that could be seen in a way. Carol, an older woman, has an intense connection with Therese, a younger girl. Their relationship develops in a rather unconventional way within the context of the 1950s society. It shows how they are drawn to each other and how Carol's more worldly and confident nature has an allure for Therese, who is just starting to figure out her own identity.
A prevalent theme is often about finding independence. The lonely housewife, who has been tied to domestic duties, may start to assert her own identity and break free from the constraints of her role. Similarly, the mature older woman might be rediscovering her independence after years of taking care of others. Also, a theme of dealing with loneliness and how they overcome it through various means, like community involvement or new friendships, is quite common.
Yes, they are often controversial. The main reason is that such relationships can be seen as unethical. There is a power imbalance between the young girl and the older man. The girl may not be fully aware of the implications of her actions, while the man should know better. This goes against the norms of healthy and equal relationships in society.
If the older woman is using her experience and wisdom to encourage the young girl to be independent and strong. For example, if the older woman has overcome many difficulties in her career and she tells the young girl about it, inspiring her to pursue her dreams fearlessly. That's a way to turn it into female empowerment.
One book is 'A Man Called Ove' which has a sub - plot about an older woman who has lost her husband and is trying to find new meaning in life. Also, 'The Yellow Wallpaper' can be considered. It's about a woman who is, in a way, a lonely housewife in a situation where she is confined and trying to break free from the mental and physical restrictions placed on her.