Many clever authors tend to create parallels between their work and society. They are often trying to convey an important message to the reader. John Wyndham successfully incorporates social criticism in his 1955 novel, The Chrysalids. A societal issue showcased by Wyndham is gender inequality. In Waknuk society, the position of women is lesser than the position of men. Wyndham effectively employs three examples of gender discrimination in The Chrysalids. First, patriarchy, portrayed by the role of men in Waknuk. Second, the violation of women’s rights and freedoms, exemplified by how female Offences are treated in Waknuk, as well as mothers who have born three mutants. Third, forced sterilization, illustrated by a women’s fate in the Fringes.
