I want to give this essay an A for understanding that events and culture must be examined in the context of their own time, and not subjected to modern snap judgements. The exposition of the female protagonist's inner conflicts is particularly good.

Unfortunately the author has discredited herself by using the nonsense term "rape culture". An academic should be more discerning. Rape is a criminal code offense.  What justifies the term "rape culture"? That rapes happen?
Murders happen. Why don't we speak of "murder culture"? It would be just as vaguely accusatory, just as irritatingly obtuse, and just as unenlightening.