Feminist Criticism: An Overview

Feminist criticism is a literary and theoretical approach that examines texts through the lens of gender dynamics, primarily focusing on women's roles, representation, and voices in literature, while challenging patriarchal norms and biases. Rooted in feminist theory, this critical framework gained prominence during the 1960s and 1970s, alongside the wider feminist movement.

One of its central aims is to address the systemic marginalization of women in literature and academia. Feminist critics analyze how literature reinforces or subverts traditional gender roles, stereotypes, and societal norms. A core question might be: How are women represented, and how does that shape society's understanding of gender?

Feminist criticism adopts various methodologies. For instance, it might involve uncovering forgotten works by women writers (reclamation), challenging male-centered narratives, or examining the interplay between language and gender. Groundbreaking works such as Virginia Woolf's "A Room of One's Own" exemplify the principles of feminist literary thought.

This approach intersects with other critical schools, such as Marxism, postcolonialism, and queer theory, broadening its scope to explore the intersections of gender, race, class, and sexual orientation. By applying feminist criticism, readers and scholars highlight hidden injustices and promote a more inclusive, equitable understanding of literature and culture.

In summary, feminist criticism is not merely a lens for interpreting art but a movement aimed at transforming cultural perceptions and achieving gender equity. Whether you are a student, scholar, or curious reader, this approach encourages you to question who controls narratives and how they reflect broader power structures.

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