FRANCIS SCOTT FITZGERALD AND ZELDA FITZGERALD – OPPOSING VIEWS ON THE CHARACTER OF THE FLAPPER

The 1920s marked the emergence of the “flapper” – a symbol of rebellion against societal norms epitomizing the newfound independence of American women. Francis Scott Fitzgerald, renowned for chronicling this phenomenon, described flappers in his works as mischievous rebels who opposed the conservative values of the previous generation. However, in addition to being charming, witty, and playful, they were depicted as manipulative materialists who would do anything for wealth and social status. The depiction of flappers in Scott Fitzgerald’s works differs from that of his wife Zelda Fitzgerald – a flapper herself. Through the character of Alabama, Zelda Fitzgerald offers a nuanced account of the flapper’s struggle for autonomy within a patriarchal society. Alabama’s journey reflects Zelda’s own experiences and challenges when confronting traditional gender roles imposed by society. This article explores Francis Scott Fitzgerald’s and Zelda Fitzgerald’s contrasting views on the character of the flapper, exploring how their respective portrayals reflect broader societal attitudes towards women’s roles in the 1920s. An analysis of these works explores the complexities of gender dynamics during this transformative era and sheds light on the enduring legacy of the flapper as an icon of female liberation. Keywords: the flapper; Francis Scott Fitzgerald; Zelda Fitzgerald; opposing views; gender