Rp on Mrs.

Rip Van Winkle

● The poem Mrs. Rip Van Winkle by Carol Ann Duffy narrates the story of Mrs. Winkle who
is betrayed by his husband despite her loyalty. In relation to the background of Rip Van
Winkle, it also tells a story regarding the Mr. Winkle disappearing for several years,
leaving his wife alone.

● The overall theme of betrayal can be seen in the poem as Mrs. Winkle is neglected and
her sexual needs being unfulfilled by his husband. This can be seen in the lines such as
“was saying a none-too-fond farewell to sex”, yet in the end of the poem she finds that
her husband had been cheating on her as seen in the lines “ he was sitting up in bed
rattling Viagra.

● Overall this poem serves as criticism towards males, as seen through the perspective of
Mrs. Winkle whose needs are neglected and betrayed by her husband. Furthermore in
the poem males are portrayed to be above women as Mr. Winkle only seems to care for
his own needs.