Mona Lisa Smile

Katherine Watson, a Ph.D. student from Oakland State University, takes on a role as an Art History instructor at the prestigious Wellesley College for the 1953/54 academic year. This decision marks the beginning of her transformative journey, as she faces the challenges of being an outsider in a traditional institution.

Upon entering her first class at Wellesley, Katherine learns that her academic pedigree influences her students' perception of her. The girls, despite their impressive knowledge, quickly undermine her authority, suggesting that there is little left for her to teach.

Katherine shares a home with her roommates, Amanda and Nancy, who work at the college in different capacities. Their supportive presence helps Katherine navigate the challenges she faces as an instructor in a conservative environment.

Katherine strives to introduce her students to unconventional art history topics that challenge their thinking. However, Betty, one of her most influential students, remains adamantly opposed to liberal ideas, representing a significant cultural clash within the classroom.

Joan, another talented student, grapples with her dreams of attending Yale for law school while being torn between her ambitions and traditional expectations of marriage. Katherine supports Joan in her endeavors, encouraging her to prioritize her education and career over societal pressures.

The oppressive atmosphere at Wellesley intensifies when Betty's editorial power results in the termination of Amanda, Katherine's roommate. This incident serves to reinforce the traditional values upheld by the institution, impacting Katherine and her students deeply.

Joan's engagement to Tommy brings complications to her aspirations and her relationship with Katherine. Betty, who holds strong traditional values, comes into conflict with the evolving dynamics of her peers as they start to question societal norms.

Katherine's efforts to foster independent thinking in her students begins to bear fruit, as some start to embrace ideas of empowerment and personal ambition. This gradual shift represents a challenge to the school's conservative ethos, even as opposition arises.

As Katherine faces turmoil in her personal life, including her budding romance with fellow instructor Bill Dunbar, she simultaneously navigates the complexities of her students' romantic entanglements. This dual struggle illustrates the intertwining of professional and personal growth.

As the academic year progresses, both Katherine and her students confront their roles within the traditional confines of Wellesley College. Betty begins to question her steadfast beliefs, mirroring the evolving independence of her classmates.

As the academic year concludes, Katherine prepares to leave Wellesley College, symbolically rejecting the limitations imposed by conventional roles. Her departure marks a pivotal moment of self-discovery and empowerment, inspired by the changes she ignited within her students.

Following Katherine's departure, Betty faces the realization of her failing marriage and the pressures of her traditional beliefs. This moment marks a significant turning point for her character as she begins to explore her own independence.

The heightened enrollment in Katherine's Art History class stands as a testament to the impact she made on her students. This surge reflects a growing interest in new ideas and perspectives, challenging the established norms of Wellesley College.

Katherine departs for Europe, leaving behind the conservative environment at Wellesley. This decision not only represents her personal growth but also symbolizes the ongoing fight for women's empowerment beyond societal expectations.