What is Lawrence’s idea about the man-woman conflict in “Sons and Lovers?”

Answer

What is Lawrence’s idea about the man-woman conflict in “Sons and Lovers?” [NU: 2015, 22] ★★★

Or, show the autobiographical elements of the novel. 

D. H. Lawrence’s (1885–1930) “Sons and Lovers” (1913) is full of man–woman conflict. Walter and Gertrude’s failed marriage shows it. Paul’s loves with Miriam and Clara also fail. These conflicts reflect Lawrence’s own family life and personal struggles.

Husband–Wife Conflict: Walter Morel and Gertrude marry with passion. But soon, they clash. Walter is rough and drinks too much. Gertrude is refined and proud. Their love turns into quarrels. The narrator says:

“Each forgot everything save the hatred of the other.”

This unhappy marriage forces Gertrude to give love to her sons. It shows a man–woman conflict in marriage. Lawrence’s own parents also had such quarrels. This is an autobiographical touch.

Mother–Son vs Sweetheart: Gertrude turns her love to William and Paul. William dies, but Paul becomes her world. Paul tries to love Miriam. But his mother feels jealous. Paul also feels torn. The narrator says:

“His [Paul] soul seemed always attentive to her [Gertrude].”

This bond is too deep. It blocks Paul’s free love. Miriam cannot win him. This shows a man–woman conflict between spiritual love and a mother’s tie. It reflects Lawrence’s own bond with his mother, Lydia, and his struggle in love.

Passion and Incompletion with Clara: Paul later turns to Clara Dawes. She gives him passion of the body. But even in her arms, he feels chained to his mother. The narrator says:

“He could not be free to go forward with his own life, really love another woman.”

Clara finally leaves him. Paul remains alone. This failed love also reflects Lawrence’s early affairs with Helen Corke, a schoolteacher. 

Lawrence shows the man-woman conflict as deep and tragic. Husbands and wives quarrel. Mothers and sons clash with sweethearts. Lovers feel passion but not fulfilment. These conflicts come from Lawrence’s own life. “Sons and Lovers” is both a