Therefore, this could imply that, ironically, gender stereotypes push women to be themselves instead of what is expected of them. them, because they choose to rebel against their expectations. As a result, women are not oppressed and are instead freer to be themselves. On the other hand, Dodo Conway, who is obviously a housewife, "raised her six children" and is happy in this role, since "a serene, almost religious smile illuminates the woman's face". This contradicts Esther's view that women are "brainwashed." Dodo is happy in her traditional role: staying at home and raising her children. Plath could have included this character to suggest to women that they might be happy being a housewife, but that should not be their only option and they can choose another lifestyle if they wish.