Gender and Race in "M. Butterfly"

In M. Butterfly by Davis Henry Hwang, there is an emphasis on race and gender through the main characters Rene Gallimard and Song Liling. Rene is a White westerner and Song is an Asian easterner, which is repeated constantly throughout the play. There is the political idea of west vs. east and Americans vs. Chinese that relates to the themes of race and gender.

            As the plot unfolds the concept of the white man having power over women is highlighted. This is seen when Song says, “the submissive Oriental woman and the cruel white man” (Act 1, Scene 6, p. 17). This quote points out the typical mindset that people have when it comes to relationships. This relates to the emphasis of gender because women are usually expected to be below and have less authority than men. In addition, it points out the idea of race because Song mentions the Asian woman under the White man’s power. However, if there is no woman for men to control then the cycle is broken. Thus it can be said that both men and woman have important roles in the society. For example, women usually take care of the family or house and men usually go out to work to make money. However, examples such as these are stereotypes, which are not always the case for all families. 

            The idea of sexism in the play can be seen when Song says, “but a woman, especially a delicate Oriental woman—we always go where we please” (Act 1, Scene 9, p. 22). This emphasizes the perspective of women getting their way all the time and relates to the importance of gender in the play. There is a hint of woman having perks, which allow them to do as they please. Furthermore, the role of a woman is the main focus of the play and is shown by Song impersonating a woman “in love” with Rene.