Bernice Bobs Her Hair

Bernice is a dynamic protagonist whose Downfall Through the Temptation of Social Acceptance aligns with that of other young women in 19th- and 20th-century fiction. Additionally, her motivations in the early part of the story are straightforward, suggesting she could fulfill the role of the common-person archetype, an unremarkable character meant to represent the reader. She certainly begins as a relatable Midwestern young woman, though the complexity of her ending position shifts her away from that role.

Bernice’s conflict stems from her struggle to fit in despite the advantages of her family, wealth, and education. As one description of her explains, “she was pretty, with dark hair and high color, but she was no fun on a party” (358). Internally, she struggles because her inclination to maintain traditional ideals of femininity makes her unpopular among more modern women. Bernice is overall unremarkable, which, in Marjorie’s view, is precisely the problem.

Bernice’s struggle to fit in leads her to accept Marjorie’s advice and seek popularity, which results in her hair being bobbed in a fashionable but unflattering style. The fallout of this choice, and her resentment toward Marjorie for pressuring her into making it, triggers a change in Bernice’s attitude.