In Trifles, gender roles are a central theme, highlighting the disparity between male and female perspectives. The play critiques the traditional roles assigned to men and women, illustrating how these roles contribute to misunderstanding and injustice. Through the interactions of the characters, the play reveals how societal norms belittle women's contributions and insights.

The men in the play, including Mr. Hale, the County Attorney, and the Sheriff, embody traditional male roles, focusing on logic and authority. They dismiss the women's observations as insignificant, referring to them as "trifles." This is evident when Mrs. Peters remarks, "My, it's a good thing the men couldn't hear us. Wouldn't they just laugh! Getting all stirred up over a little thing like a--dead canary. As if that could have anything to do with--with--wouldn't they laugh!" The men overlook the domestic clues that the women find, which are crucial to understanding the motive behind Mr. Wright's murder.

The women, Mrs. Hale and Mrs. Peters, are initially portrayed as timid and confined to their domestic roles. However, they demonstrate keen insight and empathy, uncovering the emotional evidence that the men miss. The dead canary, a symbol of Mrs. Wright's lost happiness, and the broken birdcage, representing her oppressive marriage, are significant discoveries made by the women. These "trifles" reveal the motive for the murder, yet the men remain oblivious due to their dismissive attitudes towards women's roles.

The play also uses symbolism to critique gender roles. The canary represents Mrs. Wright's stifled spirit, once vibrant and now silenced by her husband's dominance. The birdcage symbolizes her entrapment in an unhappy marriage, while the nonexistent cat suggests the need for women to protect each other in a patriarchal society. These symbols highlight the constraints placed on women and the solidarity they find in shared experiences.

Through the dramatic irony of the women's discoveries and the men's ignorance, Trifles criticizes the rigid gender roles of the early 20th century. The women's ability to solve the mystery underscores their intelligence and capability, challenging the notion that women are only suited for domestic tasks. The play advocates for a reevaluation of gender roles, emphasizing the value of women's perspectives and contributions.