Although Weyward follows the stories of three women divided by several centuries, they all seem to experience the same problem: male domination. In 1619, Altha is confronted with an entire society that believes women are designed by God to be dependent on men. The fact that the Weyward women are independent draws suspicion and condemnation. Essentially, they threaten male power. Altha says, “I was always shocked, as a girl, when a man came and sought my mother’s treatment. By his size, his deep voice, his meaty hands. The smell that hung about him. Sweat and power” (264). This alien, patriarchal power emerges frequently in Altha’s life, from the doctors who dismiss her healing knowledge to her friend’s husband, who beats her. In her story and her descendants, patriarchal oppression has permeated most areas of her life and society, though the connections with nature and other women are a site of resistance.

Violet, likewise, finds herself controlled both by her father and Frederick. Her mother also found herself in the same position with regard to Lord Rupert, eventually becoming his prisoner before her death. The situation at Orton Hall explores patriarchy at its most basic level.