Bar Codes documents twelve years in the lives of a group of Ontario women lawyers. Shakespeare's Portia provides an overarching metaphor, reminding readers of women's attempts to enter into an unfamiliar culture. Sometimes the simple act of robing can enhance a woman lawyer's identity and grant her legitimacy. Like Portia, she is transformed from ?unlessoned girl? to wise counsel. However, women also face a countervailing image, that of the powerful professional gentleman symbolizing excellence.

Women encounter the norms of the legal culture when they enter law school and...

Bar Codes documents twelve years in the lives of a group of Ontario women lawyers. Shakespeare's Portia provides an overarching metaphor, reminding readers of women's attempts to enter into an unfamiliar culture. Sometimes the simple act of robing can enhance a woman lawyer's identity and grant her legitimacy. Like Portia, she is transformed from ?unlessoned girl? to wise counsel. However, women also face a countervailing image, that of the powerful professional gentleman symbolizing excellence.

Women encounter the norms of the legal culture when they enter law school and...