Summary
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus examines women’s roles and emerging feminism in the 1960s. The story follows Elizabeth Zott, a chemist battling sexism at her research institute in California. Overlooked and undervalued in her workplace, she later becomes the host of a cooking show, Supper at Six, which she leverages to demonstrate her scientific knowledge and women’s potential to excel in any field. Elizabeth's journey represents a complex struggle to defy gender stereotypes and gain equal recognition.
Plot
Set in the 1960s, Lessons in Chemistry follows Elizabeth Zott, a chemist facing obstacles in a male-dominated field. Elizabeth experiences gender discrimination, including an unjust expulsion from UCLA after a traumatic event. She later joins Hastings Research Institute, meeting fellow scientist Calvin Evans. Their relationship grows, despite her concern about its impact on her career.
Calvin's sudden death forces Elizabeth to navigate single motherhood in a critical society. Not long after, she is let go from her job. Rebounding, Elizabeth becomes the host of a cooking show, Supper at Six, transforming it into a platform for scientific education and feminist ideas. The show encourages women to challenge societal norms.
Elizabeth continues to influence both science and media. A chance to return to Hastings in a leadership role allows her to shape future research. She discovers connections related to Calvin's past, deepening her understanding of family. Elizabeth's journey highlights resilience and intellect in a challenging environment.
Themes
Feminism and gender inequality
Lessons in Chemistry examines feminism and gender inequality in the 1960s through Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who faces both overt and subtle misogyny while trying to establish her career. Male colleagues undermine her, creating a work environment where casual chauvinism leads to intellectual theft and harassment. This reflects systemic gender inequality in that era's scientific communities. Women, despite qualifications, often faced roles deemed "appropriate," like administrative tasks. Institutional sexism, not lack of skill, hinders Elizabeth's career, showing societal resistance to women in scientific roles.
When Elizabeth begins her cooking show, , she integrates chemistry lessons, challenging traditional gender roles and asserting women's intellectual capabilities. Her determination critiques societal structures that stifle women's ambitions and advocates for the recognition of their contributions in all fields.
