10.2.1

Introduction to Feminist Literary Criticism

Test yourself

Central Ideas in Feminist Literary Criticism

Feminist criticism is based on ideas from the feminist movement.

Illustrative background for Core focuses of feminist criticismIllustrative background for Core focuses of feminist criticism ?? "content

Core focuses of feminist criticism

  • Feminist criticism focuses on power relations, particularly the unequal power relations between men and women.
  • It examines notions of gender and the extent to which ideas of what constitute masculinity or femininity have been constructed.
  • The next slides show central ideas of feminist thinking.
Illustrative background for Negative stereotyping of womenIllustrative background for Negative stereotyping of women ?? "content

Negative stereotyping of women

  • Literature reflects, and helps to perpetuate, the negative stereotyping of women. Women are stereotyped from a male point of view in ‘positive’ ways, such as the 'self-sacrificing angel' or in ‘negative’ ways such as the 'dangerous seductress'. These stereotypes promote the idea that female behaviour should be more passive and powerless, preventing equality between the sexes. Feminist criticism often looks to challenge these stereotypes.
Illustrative background for Gender roles are constructuredIllustrative background for Gender roles are constructured ?? "content

Gender roles are constructured

  • Gender roles have little to do with how females (and males) really are, but with the way that society sees them - how they are culturally constructed.
  • The notion of women being naturally 'timid' or 'helpless' is to construct a role for them.
  • Likewise, masculinity, with its connotations of strength and control is also a construction.
  • Feminist criticism often looks to challenge the assumptions that lead to these constructed (artificial) ideas of how men and women ‘should’ behave.
Illustrative background for Texts reflect patriarchyIllustrative background for Texts reflect patriarchy ?? "content

Texts reflect patriarchy

  • Texts, even those written by women, often reflect and reinforce patriarchal authority (a society in which men hold the power).

Jump to other topics

1Introduction to Atonement

2Chapter Summaries & Analysis: Part One

3Chapter Summaries & Analysis: Part Two

4Chapter Summaries & Analysis: Part Three

5Chapter Summaries & Analysis: Part Four

5.1Epilogue: London, 1999 - Pages 353-371

6Key Character Profiles

7Key Themes

8Writing Techniques

9Context

10Critical Debates

Go student ad image

Unlock your full potential with GoStudent tutoring

  • Affordable 1:1 tutoring from the comfort of your home

  • Tutors are matched to your specific learning needs

  • 30+ school subjects covered

Book a free trial lesson