Stigma of Mental Illness

Using Norma Jeane and Gladys’ stories, Oates portrays not only the stigma of mental illness, but also way people misunderstand mental illness. For instance, Norma Jeane is warned by multiple people not to let others know her mother is mentally ill because it will impact the way they treat her. During this period in history, mental illness was not something that was discussed or accepted so Norma Jeane had to self medicate her own mental illness with substances that made her symptoms worse. The Playwright was the person who came closest to understanding and accepting Norma Jeane despite her mental issues, yet she pushed him away just as others had pushed her away.

Norma Jeane is taught the her mother is a dirty secret that she needs to keep to herself. Norma Jeane has already invited her mother to spend time at her...