Mildred and Andrew's Relationship

The 1920’s was a period of great economic and social change which can allow us to gain insight into Mildred and Andrew's relationship primarily through Mildred's perspective Futures. 

Mildred's narrative reveals, while in the sanatorium, instead of affectionate exchanges or deep emotional connections, her and Andrew’s dialogues predominantly revolve around Andrew posing business-related questions to Mildred. This one-sided dynamic leads Mildred to confess a profound sense of solitude within their relationship, saying "It's not that I'm tired of him. I'm tired of the person I've become around him" (Diaz, 369).

This emotional exhaustion also proves to be partially due to Mildred's struggle to conform to Andrew's expectations of a model wife while simultaneously being instrumental in running his business, without receiving due credit. The 1920s was an era of transformation, where the concept of the "New Woman" was emerging. Yet, traditional gender roles still persisted, dictating that women should excel in domestic roles while men acted as breadwinners and protectors. Andrew's expectations of Mildred, while reflective of societal norms, also underscored the tension arising from the clash between these expectations and her individual aspirations. While Mildred may have been content with her philanthropic work and charities, she was a strong and powerful woman and likely was not content with being in Andrew’s shadows, and likely also knew that to him she was only a way to further elevate his image. 

While it is plausible that Andrew harbored feelings for Mildred, we must question the authenticity of his love. His occasional gestures, like giving Mildred a golden bracelet, could be interpreted as tokens of affection. However, they may have served a dual purpose, as they showcased his power and wealth, adding complexity to his motivations. This brings into question the depth of his love for her and whether he valued her as an individual or primarily as an asset.

In summary, the portrayal of Mildred and Andrew's relationship in "Trust" captures the intricacies of love during a transformative period in American history. It highlights the conflict between societal expectations, gender roles, and individual desires, inviting readers to contemplate the depth of Andrew's affection and Mildred's struggle to reconcile her role within the constraints of her time. It underscores how societal norms, gender roles, and economic factors can impact love and relationships, and it raises interesting questions about the authenticity of their connection.