Maria Concepcion and Patriarchy

In my re-reading of Maria Concepcion, I noticed that there is a strong theme of patriarchy. In regards to gender, Maria Concepcion is incredibly strong-willed, hard-working, and intuitive. These qualities are often characteristic of men. Thus, Maria Concepcion takes on a masculine role. Juan, who is flighty and lazy is more feminine than Maria Concepcion and therefore, feels insignificant and weak in his relationship with her. These gender relations disobey the ideals of patriarchy. In contrast to Maria Concepcion, Maria Rosa is much more feminine. She is flirtatious, vivacious, and silly (I mean silly in a some what fantastical and pejorative sense). Juan is drawn to Maria Rosa, as she is weaker than him and therefore, he can again reclaim his masculinity. Therefore, the eventual murder of Maria Rosa by Maria Concepcion is symbolic of the emasculation of Juan.