A Chinese drama has always been an important part of my life. Ever since I was a child, I would watch old Chinese dramas that all displayed one thing: the roles of women in society. Although I do not remember the names of these particular dramas, they were memorable. I learned about femininity as well as the social roles I was to follow. My grandmother was also another important factor that led me to develop these characteristics. It also shaped my social identity, it made me realize why my behavior towards people is the way it is presently. It made me follow a strict role in order to fit into today’s society. The women in the dramas never disobeyed their elders, nor did they speak back to others. It was considered unladylike, and was shunned by many. Although I did not follow the rules of these dramas rule by rule, it was however replayed in my mind, reminding me to behave a certain way in order to gain acceptance in society. My grandmother always told me to behave as a child and the role of a female was to cook, clean, and take care of the household. Of course, this was what my grandmother did for most of her lifetime. She grew up in China in the 1960’s, things were different back then. Laws were stricter against women. Their rights were limited compared to the present day society. She grew up in the countryside where she received little education; in fact, she received no education other than being home school. Following her mother, tending the house, feeding the cows, and cooking dinner. It was her daily routine. I was taught in a similar way, but with slight tweaks here and there. I grew up with an education, I went to school. However, our minds are still quite similar. Our roles or what we saw as our roles in society is the same. Women are at a disadvantage compared to men. This can be traced back into history. In the history or china, in the history of America. However, I realized a couple years back that maybe these roles that I have been following might not have been the correct road to follow. Society has changed. In fact, China is a whole different country with a whole different government. I was to make myself into who I wanted to be, not what is expected of me. The fact is, society is different now. Women do not have to cook, clean, and look after the household anymore. We were more independent. They have jobs and careers. Although the Chinese dramas did shape me into what I am today, I also believe that who I am depends on what I do as well.

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