Though Jon Hamm’s Don Draper is often considered the main character of Mad Men, it’s essential to acknowledge the significant contributions made by Elisabeth Moss and Christina Hendricks, who portrayed Peggy Olson and Joan Holloway Harris. These actresses played a crucial role in making the show successful. Initially, their characters were not on friendly terms due to being among the few women at Sterling Cooper, an advertising agency followed throughout Mad Men. They both achieved success and respect within the series, but there were numerous instances where they clashed with each other.
In the series Mad Men, Peggy and Joan, members of the cast, managed to make their mark in the chauvinistic environment of Sterling Cooper. Although Peggy occasionally delivers sharp remarks during their professional association, Joan tends to be especially critical of Peggy, particularly in the early stages of the show. There are numerous factors that might explain Joan’s initial unkindness towards Peggy rather than viewing her as a fellow comrade. The enduring appeal of Mad Men lies in its ability to portray the intricate evolution of relationships like those between characters such as Peggy and Joan.
Joan Is Harsh To Peggy Because She Cares About Her Survival In Their Sexist Workplace
Joan Understands What Happens To Women Who Aren’t Aware Of How The System Works
Because Mad Men takes place in the 1960s, it frequently explores the entrenched sexism and discrimination prevalent during that time. This is expressed in various ways throughout the series, but a particular focus is given to the challenges faced by women in the workforce. The show portrays these evolving circumstances as influenced by the social changes of the era. Initially, when Peggy begins working at Sterling Cooper, Joan feels uneasy due to her concern that there’s only space for one strong, intelligent woman in the company.
Instead of using “they’re also Joan’s way of helping Peggy understand what’s expected,” you could say “Joan’s criticism and rudeness are not only self-protective measures but also a means of guiding Peggy on the proper conduct at Sterling Cooper.”
This rephrasing keeps the original meaning intact, while using more common phrases that flow smoothly in natural language. The emphasis remains on Joan’s dual purpose: protecting herself and helping Peggy navigate the corporate world at Sterling Cooper.
Joan & Peggy Butt Heads Because Of Their Different Strategies For Getting Ahead
They Have Methods For Fitting In And Finding A Place In The World Of Advertising
In the 1960s work environment, women often found themselves at odds with each other. Peggy and Joan symbolize two contrasting perspectives on this issue. While Joan navigates the system to benefit herself, employing her charm towards men as a means of influence and control, Peggy aims for a radical transformation. Despite gaining insider status, she strives tirelessly to overhaul the entire system, climbing up the agency ladder, and compelling Don and other male colleagues to acknowledge her talents as a copywriter and a force to be reckoned with in the corporate world.
In essence, it’s fair to observe that Joan harbors some resentment towards Peggy due to her knack for stirring things up and earning the admiration of men without relying on her charm. This ongoing tension persists throughout numerous seasons. However, following the departure of Don, Roger, Lane, and Cooper from Sterling Cooper, Joan’s business acumen and insight begin to be appreciated, paving the way for her success and a partnership in later seasons. Once Joan perceives herself as being on an equal footing with Peggy and embraces her own ambition, their relationship undergoes a transformation.
The Mad Men Characters Respect Each Other In The End
Peggy & Joan Ultimately Recognize Each Other As Equals Who Can Help Each Other
As Joan grows more confident, she comes to understand that Peggy isn’t her rival at work, ready to snatch opportunities from her, but rather a fellow combatant against the men who truly pose a threat. By the last season, Joan even considers inviting Peggy along when she launches her own business, realizing Peggy’s talent as a copywriter and recognizing that two women leading a company is a strength, not a weakness. Moreover, neither of them were involved in Don Draper’s romantic entanglements on Mad Men, making their dynamic distinct from others in the show.
As a movie critic, I’ve always found it captivating to witness the camaraderie between Peggy and Joan in Mad Men, two strong women bonded by their shared frustrations towards Don Draper and the other men at SC&P. Their candid conversations about the subtle injustices they face and the recognition they lack for their work serve as a powerful testament to their friendship. Despite their differing perspectives, their trust and mutual respect make them enduring companions in this complex world of Mad Men. The transformation of these two characters into wise, capable women is one of the most rewarding aspects of the series.
| Title | Rotten Tomatoes Critic Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
| Mad Men (2007–2015) | 94% | 95% |
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2025-05-17 18:08