What no one understands about Joan Holloway: Her Complexity and Agency:

One of the most compelling characters in the television show Mad Men is Joan Holloway. Portrayed by the talented Christina Hendricks, Joan is a complex and multi-dimensional character who defies easy categorization. She is much more than just a beautiful office manager turned partner at an ad firm. Joan's journey throughout the series is filled with triumphs and struggles, and it is these complexities that make her such a fascinating character.Contrary to the viewpoint presented in one of the summaries, Joan's character does not fall into the binary trappings of '60s culture. Yes, she faces societal expectations and struggles to balance her personal desires with them, but this is what makes her character so relatable and realistic. Joan's actions and decision-making process are not always consistent or predictable because she is a human being with flaws and contradictions. Just like anyone else, she is capable of both strength and vulnerability.One of the criticisms levied against Joan in the summaries is her treatment of other women in the office. It is true that Joan can be harsh and unforgiving at times, and this behavior does seem out of character for her level-headedness. However, it is important to remember that Joan is navigating a male-dominated world where she constantly has to prove herself and fight for respect. In such an environment, it is not surprising that she sometimes lashes out or adopts a defensive posture. It is a coping mechanism to protect herself and assert her authority.Another critique raised is Joan's decision to have a one-time tryst with Roger, which led to her pregnancy. Some argue that this decision is inconsistent with her character and that she would not have given in so easily. However, it is essential to recognize the complexity of Joan's relationship with Roger. Their history is fraught with power dynamics and unresolved feelings, making it difficult to predict how Joan would react in such a situation. Additionally, Joan's decision to keep the baby and raise him as her own demonstrates her strength as a mother and her ability to make difficult choices.The criticism towards Joan's relationship with Peggy is also unfounded. While it is true that the two characters clash at times, their relationship is a testament to the complexities of female friendships and the struggles they face in a male-dominated industry. Joan is not obligated to allow Roger to play a bigger role in their son's life. Her decision to keep him at a distance is a personal one, influenced by her own experiences and desires for her son's well-being. It is important to respect her agency in making such decisions.Joan's compromise of her pride to secure a client for the firm is seen as odd by some. However, it is crucial to remember that Joan's character development is not limited to her professional achievements. She is a multi-faceted individual with personal desires and ambitions beyond her career. Sometimes, compromises have to be made to achieve certain goals, and Joan's decision showcases her ability to navigate and strategize within a patriarchal society.The criticism towards Joan's marriage to Greg is also unwarranted. While it may seem odd for her to marry someone with negative traits, love and relationships are complex. People often make choices in the moment that they may later regret. Joan's surprise at Greg's decision to divorce her is valid because it is a shocking and unexpected turn of events. It is unreasonable to expect her to be accepting and supportive of a decision that fundamentally changes her life.A significant point of contention is Joan's agreement to a deal with McCann that only gives her 50 cents on the dollar for her partnership. This decision is seen as contradictory to her character and a failure to stand up for what is right. However, it is essential to understand Joan's motivations and the context in which this decision was made. McCann is a powerful and intimidating force, and Joan's choice to secure financial stability for her and her son can be seen as an act of self-preservation in a challenging situation.Lastly, the idea that Joan and Don should have ended up together is misguided. Their relationship is one filled with chemistry and tension, but it is ultimately not a healthy or sustainable partnership. Joan deserves a partner who sees her as an equal and respects her agency, and Don is not capable of providing that. Joan's ultimate triumph as a successful business owner and single mother in the series finale is a testament to her growth and resilience.In conclusion, what no one understands about Joan Holloway is the depth of her character and her agency in navigating a challenging and patriarchal world. She is not meant to conform to stereotypes or be a flawless and consistent character. Joan is a flawed and complex human being, and it is through her struggles and triumphs that she becomes an empowering and relatable character. We must embrace the complexities of her story and appreciate her for the multifaceted woman she is.