The Yellow Wallpaper

short story by Gilman

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Article History

The Yellow Wallpaper, short story by Charlotte Perkins Gilman, published in New England Magazine in May 1892 and in book form in 1899. The Yellow Wallpaper, initially interpreted as a Gothic horror tale, was considered the best as well as the least-characteristic work of fiction by Gilman.

An autobiographical account fictionalized in the first person, it describes the gradual emotional and intellectual deterioration of a young wife and mother who, apparently suffering from postpartum depression, undergoes a “rest cure,” involving strict bed rest and a complete absence of mental stimulation, under the care of her male neurologist.

This article was most recently revised and updated by Kathleen Kuiper.