Role of Women in Indian Camp and ShilohThe women of “Indian Camp” live a very different life from that of the woman in “Shiloh”. Ernest Hemingway wrote "Indian Camp" giving women a defined role in their family while Bobbi Ann Mason wrote "Shiloh", leaving the woman's defined family role ambiguous. Because they are responsible for the birth of babies, the Native American women of the previous story are the nurturers, as opposed to the men. Women accept their roles and participate in their functions without any protest. On the other hand, Norma Jean's role is not as traditional as that of the other women since she and Leroy do not have children, she lives practically alone and she keeps a job. Although Native American women and Norma Jean lead different lives, they share the same problem: enduring men's ignorance of their needs. However, as the story progresses, Norma Jean realizes that she wants to move forward with her life, so she does not accept her situation. Native American women continue their lifestyle not because they choose to be submissive, but because they know no other way. The women in the two stories lead completely different lives in that the Native American women accept their situation, adopt submissive behavior and put up with men's ignorance, while Norma Jean does not accept her situation, adopts assertive behavior and does not can't stand. her husband's ignorance. Not exposed to Norma Jean's independent lifestyle, Native American women accept their lives of care and nurturing. The doctor's visit to the Indian camp only shows women helping with childbirth. While they help the doctor, the men sit on the side of the road, away from any commotion. No signs of resentment... middle of paper ...... during the period of her absence, Norma Jean becomes a stronger person by being alone. Having Leroy at home makes her realize that she needs to move on and uses her confidence to get out of the situation. Even though they remain faithful to their duties despite all the chores, Native American women are strong because they play a very important role in the family. Norma Jean also proves herself strong by leaving her husband to go further and achieve more in her life. Women share different experiences, but they all demonstrate the strength to be who they want to be. Works Cited Hemingway, Ernest. “Indian camp.” In time. New York, Scribner's, 1955. 16,17. Mason, Bobbi Ann. “Shilah.” Literature: an introduction to fiction, poetry and drama. Sixth edition. Ed. XJ Kennedy and Dana Gioia. New York: Harper Collins, 1995. 495, 496, 500.