Taylor Warncke

Abstract:

In Anita Loo’s Gentlemen Prefer Blondes we are introduced to Lorelei, a woman in the 1920’s who uses her sexuality in order to gain her way up the ladder of life. Whether she is looking for a way to advance through society or economically Lorelei uses her sexuality in order to help move up this social ladder. Lorelei goes through the novel starting as a small southern town victim who made her way to a New York/ European socialite, she learns how to use her sexuality to her advantage. Lorelei’s past causes her to search for a sense of security and someone who can take care of her through life, both financially and emotionally. In efforts to move up the social ladder Lorelei also is able to claim back her own sexuality that was stripped away by society.