THEORETICAL ASPECTS IN THE FORMATION OF
PEDAGOGICAL SCIENCES
International scientific-online conference
154
A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN: THE STRUGGLES AND RESILIENCE
OF WOMEN
Farangis Mukhammadieva
Karshi International University
E-mail: farangis0104@gmail.com
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.16267309
Abstract:
This thesis examines how Betty Smith's A Tree Grows in
Brooklyn highlights the themes of education, the symbolic significance of the
tree, and the socioeconomic challenges that women face. Understanding the
interplay of education, symbolism, and socioeconomic barriers in female
identity is crucial in today’s world, especially in Uzbekistan, where women
continue to seek empowerment in the face of traditional norms and economic
challenges. By contextualizing Smith's work within the Uzbek experience, this
study aims to illuminate the universal struggles for female identity and
empowerment, showcasing how literature can reflect and inform societal issues.
This analysis will not only contribute to the literary discourse surrounding A
Tree Grows in Brooklyn but also provide insights into the ongoing journey of
women in Uzbekistan as they strive for resilience and self-actualization.
Keywords:
empowerment, identity, poverty, symbolism, education,
individualism.
Betty Smith's A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is a seminal work that explores the
struggles of a young girl, Francie Nolan, growing up in the early 20th century in
Brooklyn, New York. Set against the backdrop of poverty and social challenges,
the novel delves into themes of education, resilience, and identity formation. In
Uzbekistan, a country rich in historical and cultural diversity, similar
socioeconomic issues persist, including the challenges faced by women in
education and empowerment. The symbolic significance of the tree in the novel
parallels the aspirations of Uzbek women as they navigate their own paths
toward growth and independence within a changing society.
The literary landscape surrounding A Tree Grows in Brooklyn has been
enriched by numerous studies that explore its central themes highlighting how
Betty Smith's portrayal of Francie Nolan's educational journey serves as a
microcosm of the broader societal challenges faced by women in early 20th-
century America. In her analysis of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, Michaels (2010)
emphasizes the profound impact of education on Francie Nolan's character
development. The novel depicts the Nolan family, who, despite facing significant
poverty and hardship, place a strong emphasis on education as a means of
achieving a better life. Francie’s parents, particularly her mother, Katie, emdiv
THEORETICAL ASPECTS IN THE FORMATION OF
PEDAGOGICAL SCIENCES
International scientific-online conference
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the struggle for upward mobility. They hope that through Francie's education
and opportunities, she can break free from the cycle of poverty that has
constrained their lives. An interesting example can be the fact that Katie Nolan
begins reading books to her children when they are quite young. This practice
starts as a way to instill a love of learning and to provide them with a sense of
escapism from their challenging lives. She particularly reads the Bible and works
by Shakespeare to her children. Reading the Bible provides spiritual guidance
and comfort, while Shakespeare’s works expose Francie and Neeley to rich
language and complex themes, nurturing their appreciation for literature and
education. This practice reflects Katie's desire to elevate her children's lives and
aspirations, despite their challenging circumstances.
Therrien (1999) provides a critical examination of the factors influencing
Francie Nolan’s experiences in A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, focusing on the
themes of poverty, class, and gender. She argues that Smith poignantly captures
the struggles of the working class, emphasizing how societal expectations and
economic hardships disproportionately affect women. Therrien notes, “The
narrative reveals the silent burdens carried by women as they navigate a world
filled with systemic inequalities” (1999, p. 95). This perspective highlights
Francie's resilience amid adversity, making her journey not just a personal
struggle but a reflection of broader social issues.
In her insightful book review of A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, Katharine Jocher
emphasizes that Francie's journey is emblematic of the struggles many women
face in overcoming socioeconomic barriers, stating that "the tree itself
represents the enduring spirit of those who strive for growth amid adversity"
(Jocher, 1943, p. 240). By contextualizing Smith's narrative alongside the
experiences of Uzbek women, we can explore how literature reflects universal
themes of empowerment and the quest for self-actualization, highlighting the
transformative power of education in both settings.
In A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, the contrast between the educated poor
teacher, Miss Garner, and the uneducated pub owner's wife, McShane, highlights
differing perspectives on ambition, class, and the role of education in shaping
identity. Miss Garner is portrayed as a clean, well-groomed, and somewhat
elegant woman despite her modest means. She takes pride in her appearance,
often dressing neatly, which reflects her professionalism and dedication to her
role as a teacher. Her beauty is understated, and she carries herself with a sense
of dignity. However, her commitment to education and her role as a teacher
leaves little room for romantic pursuits; no man actively pursues her,
THEORETICAL ASPECTS IN THE FORMATION OF
PEDAGOGICAL SCIENCES
International scientific-online conference
156
highlighting her focus on her students and career rather than personal
relationships. This choice underscores her independence and the sacrifices she
makes for her passion for teaching. In contrast, McShane, the pub owner’s wife,
presents a more disheveled appearance. She often dresses poorly and lacks the
refinement that Miss Garner embodies. McShane is more concerned with her
social life and interactions with men than with her children’s education or well-
being. Her conversations often revolve around gossip and the local community,
reflecting a more superficial engagement with life. This lack of focus on her
children's education demonstrates a resignation to her circumstances,
prioritizing immediate social interactions over long-term aspirations for her
family.
The comparison between Miss Garner and McShane in A Tree Grows in
Brooklyn offers several valuable takeaways for Uzbek women. First, Miss Garner
exemplifies the transformative power of education, highlighting that pursuing
knowledge can be a vital pathway to empowerment, independence, and better
opportunities. Investing in education can lead to personal and societal growth.
Furthermore, Miss Garner's pride in her appearance and professionalism
underscores the significance of self-respect, reminding Uzbek women that
presenting themselves with dignity can help gain respect in both personal and
professional spheres. Lastly, the characters illustrate different ways women can
respond to societal expectations, inspiring Uzbek women to challenge norms
and pursue their dreams regardless of societal pressures.
Another key takeaway from the book can be Katie's decision to keep her
husband's drinking habit a secret from their children, striving to protect their
upbringing and maintain a stable environment for them. Moreover, it is
significant that a shared experience, such as the pain of giving birth, can foster
appreciation and love among women, enabling them to live harmoniously
without disagreements. This universal struggle serves as a powerful bond,
connecting women through their common experiences of motherhood and
resilience. This idea is emphasized in the book to encourage women to empower
each other, highlighting the strength found in their shared journeys.
In conclusion, A Tree Grows in Brooklyn beautifully captures the journey of
its protagonist, Francie Nolan, who embodies the complexities of growing up in
20
th
century America. As the quote states, "She was not a child, but she was not
yet a woman. She was like a tree, growing, reaching for the sky, but still rooted in
the earth." This metaphor highlights her struggle between innocence and
maturity, as well as her resilience in the face of adversity. Through Francie's, her
THEORETICAL ASPECTS IN THE FORMATION OF
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International scientific-online conference
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mother Katie’s and other female characters’ experiences, the novel emphasizes
the importance of heritage, the bonds between women, and the enduring
strength found in shared struggles. Ultimately, the book serves as a powerful
reminder of the transformative journey toward self-discovery and
empowerment.
References
1.
Jocher, K. (1943). A Tree Grows in Brooklyn [Book review]. Social Forces,
22(1),240.
https://www.proquest.com/openview/dfb3552898def7ec03299939bd3e0356/
1?pq-origsite=gscholar&cbl=1816368
2.
Michaels, L. (2010). A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Quarterly Review of Film
and Video, 27(5), 406–407.
3.
https://doi.org/10.1080/10509208.2010.494996
4.
Smith, B. (2005). A tree grows in Brooklyn. Harper Perennial
5.
Smith, B. (2007). A tree grows in Brooklyn: Poverty. Journal of
Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics, 28(1), 15. HarperPerennial.
6.
Therrien, K. M. (1999). “‘Why Do They Have To... To... Say Things...?’”:
Poverty, Class, and Gender in Betty Smith’s A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. Legacy,
16(1), 93–105. http://www.jstor.org/stable/25679292
