Betty Botter Bought Some Butter

Ms. or Mr. Botter? - Questioning Betty's Femininity.

In almost every other illustration, Betty's female gender, whether she is attractive or not, is clearly depicted by her attire and accessories. In this one, however, there are no ruffles, flounces, laces, or ribbons in her clothing; nor are there any hearts or flower motifs in the picture. In fact, the geometric, checkered and striped patterns of Betty's apron, tablecloth, pitcher, and bowl might be considered decidedly masculine. Not to mention her short side-parted haircut, big square shoulders, blotchy face, and Jimmy Durante-esqe nose. And is that an armband she's wearing? Seems the only thing Betty is missing here is a set of suspenders! An interesting note is that Betty is stirring the batter with a metal fork, instead of a wooden spoon common in other illustrations. Perhaps the batter is stiffer; that would seem to fit in well with the other picture elements. She seems to be holding on to the fork tightly, an indication of the need for control. Perhaps Betty's kitchen is the only pure power space in her life. Also note, there is no mess anywhere in this Betty's kitchen. If this is a statement linking neatness with masculinity in women, it is interesting but, nevertheless, unsubstantiated.