Gender and the Flu

The discussion highlights how the 1918 flu epidemic revealed deep-seated gender norms, with women like Amelia expressing fear and uncertainty while men focused on work obligations. Lillian's story illustrates the personal toll of these societal expectations, as she faced separation from her sister and the loss of her mother, shaping her identity and life trajectory. The conversation emphasizes that a virus is not just a biological entity but also a social force that exposes societal fractures.