Mary Tyler Moore played the character of Laura Petrie on The Dick Van Dyke Show, a sitcom that aired from 1961 to 1966. Laura Petrie was the wife of Rob Petrie, a writer for the fictional “Alan Brady Show”. She was a homemaker and mother of two children, Richie and Jennifer. Laura Petrie was known for her optimistic outlook on life, her love of her family, and her ability to get into funny situations.
Laura Petrie: A Model of the Perfect 1960s Housewife
Mary Tyler Moore’s portrayal of Laura Petrie in “The Dick Van Dyke Show” (1961-1966) set the standard for the ideal American housewife of the 1960s. Laura embodied the traits expected of women of the time: domesticity, submissiveness, and unwavering support for her husband.
Domesticity
- Expert Homemaker: Laura kept an immaculate home, cooking, cleaning, and decorating with effortless perfection.
- Enthusiastic Entertainer: She loved hosting parties and gatherings, where she wowed guests with her culinary skills and gracious hospitality.
- Devoted Mother: Laura adored her son, Ritchie, and dedicated herself to his well-being and development.
Submissiveness
- Supportive Wife: Laura always put her husband, Rob, first, deferring to his wishes and dreams.
- Respectful Demeanor: She treated Rob with respect and understanding, never challenging his authority or questioning his decisions.
- Traditional Roles: Laura firmly believed in the traditional division of labor, with men as the breadwinners and women as homemakers.
Unwavering Support
- Rob’s Number One Fan: Laura was Rob’s biggest cheerleader, supporting his comedic aspirations and celebrating his successes.
- Emotional Anchor: She provided a stable and loving environment for Rob, offering a listening ear and a shoulder to cry on when needed.
- Uncomplaining Nature: Even in difficult situations, Laura rarely voiced her complaints, choosing instead to maintain a positive and supportive demeanor.
| Trait | Examples from the Show |
|---|---|
| Domesticity | – Cooks a perfect Thanksgiving dinner – Hosts a lively dinner party |
| Submissiveness | – Defers to Rob’s decision on buying a new car – Never argues with Rob in public |
| Unwavering Support | – Lauds Rob’s jokes at every opportunity – Comforts Rob after a bad performance |
Laura Petrie’s character represented the idealized expectations of 1960s society. While her portrayal may seem outdated today, it remains a fascinating glimpse into the social norms of the era.
Question 1:
Who is Laura Petrie?
Answer:
Laura Petrie is a fictional character in The Dick Van Dyke Show, portrayed by Mary Tyler Moore.
Question 2:
What is Laura Petrie’s relationship with Rob Petrie?
Answer:
Laura Petrie is married to Rob Petrie, a comedy writer for the fictional television show “The Alan Brady Show”.
Question 3:
What are Laura Petrie’s personality traits?
Answer:
Laura Petrie is known for being kind-hearted, witty, and supportive. She is also a loving wife and mother who is always there for her family.
Well, folks, that’s the story of Laura Petrie, the iconic character that Mary Tyler Moore brought to life in “The Dick Van Dyke Show.” Thanks for taking this trip down memory lane with me. If you enjoyed this little piece of TV history, be sure to check back soon for more blasts from the past and other fun stuff. Until then, keep on laughing and living your best life!