literature and gender essay

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Gender Identity in Literature & Literary Theory

Gender identity, as a theoretical term in the field of gender studies, refers to an individual’s profound and internalized understanding of their own gender, encompassing a sense of being male, female, a combination of both, neither, or a different gender entirely.

Etymology Of Gender Identity

Table of Contents

The etymology of gender identity can be understood by examining the origins of the constituent terms:

Gender : The term “gender” traces its etymology to the Old French word “gendre” and the Latin word “genus,” both of which mean “kind” or “type.” In the context of gender identity, “gender” refers to the social and cultural roles, behaviors, and expectations associated with being male, female, or other gender categories.
Identity : The word “identity” has its roots in the Latin word “identitas,” which means “sameness” or “being the same.” In the context, “identity” pertains to an individual’s personal and deeply-felt sense of their own gender, which may or may not align with the sex assigned to them at birth or societal expectations.

The term as a concept signifies an individual’s internal sense of their gender, encompassing their self-perceived gender and its identity, which may or may not correspond to the binary categories of male or female. Understanding the etymology of these terms aids in appreciating the complex nature of gender and its personal, social, and cultural dimensions.

Meanings Of Gender Identity

Definition of gender identity as a theoretical term.

It, as a theoretical term in the field of gender studies, refers to an individual’s profound and internalized understanding of their own gender, encompassing a sense of being male, female, a combination of both, neither, or a different gender entirely.

This concept emphasizes the deeply-felt identification that may or may not align with the sex assigned at birth or conform to societal gender norms. It is a pivotal concept in understanding the complex interplay between personal gender experiences, social structures, and self-identification within the broader framework of gender theory and studies.

Gender Identity: Theorists, Works And Arguments

Work : Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity .
Argument : Butler’s work is influential in deconstructing traditional notions of gender, arguing that it is performative and socially constructed.
Work : The Second Sex .
Argument : De Beauvoir’s exploration of “one is not born, but rather becomes, a woman” laid the groundwork for discussions on the socialization and it construction.
Work : Gender Outlaw: On Men, Women, and the Rest of Us .
Argument : Bornstein challenges the binary understanding of gender and argues for a more inclusive and diverse concept.
Work : The Lenses of Gender: Transforming the Debate on Sexual Inequality .
Argument : Bem’s research on androgyny and the Bem Sex Role Inventory contributed to the understanding of gender as a multidimensional concept.
Argument : Butler’s work questions the conventional understanding it and asserts that it is a performative act influenced by socital norms and expectations.
Argument : De Beauvoir’s seminal work explores the construction of female identity and the societal forces that shape women’s gender identity.
Argument : Feinberg’s novel delves into the experiences of a transgender individual, emphasizing the complexity of gender and its identity and the impact of social norms.
Argument : Bornstein challenges the binary understanding of it and advocates for a more inclusive and fluid concept of gender.
Argument : Gender and its identity is socially constructed, and individuals are socialized into specific gender roles, which may not necessarily align with their inherent identity.
Argument : Gender and its identity is performative; individuals “do” gender by conforming to or resisting societal expectations and norms.
Argument : Gender and its identity extends beyond the binary categories of male and female, acknowledging the existence of non-binary and diverse gender identities.
Argument : Gender and its identity intersects with other aspects of identity , such as race, sexuality, and socioeconomic status, influencing an individual’s experiences and perceptions of gender.

These theorists, works, and arguments contribute to the evolving discourse , challenging and expanding our understanding of this complex and multifaceted concept.

Gender Identity And Literary Theories

Gender identity in literary criticism.

Critique : In Woolf’s “Orlando,” the titular character, Orlando, experiences a magical transformation from a young man to a woman during the course of several centuries. The novel critiques traditional notions of gender and its identity, emphasizing the fluidity of gender roles and how they are influenced by societal norms and expectations. Orlando’s journey challenges the conventional understanding of gender and invites readers to question the rigidity of gender constructs.
Critique : In Eugenides’ “Middlesex,” the novel follows the life of Calliope, an intersex individual raised as a girl but later identifying as a man named Cal. The book critically examines the interplay between personal gender and its identity and social norms. Calliope’s complex journey showcases the challenges of navigating identity in a world that often adheres to binary gender constructs. The novel critiques the idea that can fit neatly into predefined categories.
Critique : In Feinberg’s “Stone Butch Blues,” the novel provides a poignant critique of the struggles and experiences of Jess Goldberg, a transgender individual navigating issues of gender and its identity and sexuality. The story delves into the challenges of living outside traditional gender norms and the importance of self-identification. Through Jess’s narrative, the novel critiques the societal pressures that force individuals into narrowly defined gender roles and the resilience required to live authentically.
Critique : Winterson’s “Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit” tells the story of Jeanette, a young girl raised in a strict religious community who grapples with her lesbian identity. The novel critically explores the intersection of gender, sexuality, and religious identity. It critiques the rigid expectations and norms that often limit the expression of gender and sexuality , highlighting the importance of embracing one’s true self in the face of societal constraints.

112 Gender Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Gender is a complex and multifaceted aspect of human identity that influences every aspect of our lives. From the way we dress and behave to the roles we play in society, gender plays a significant role in shaping who we are and how we interact with the world around us. With such a wide-ranging and diverse topic, there are countless gender essay topics to explore and discuss. In this article, we will provide 112 gender essay topic ideas and examples to inspire your writing and research.

The impact of gender stereotypes on children's development
Gender inequality in the workplace
Gender representation in the media
The intersection of gender and race
Gender identity and sexual orientation
Transgender rights and activism
The history of the feminist movement
Masculinity in the modern world
The role of gender in politics
Gender and mental health
Gender-based violence and abuse
Gender and education
The gender wage gap
Gender and technology
The portrayal of gender in literature
Gender and body image
Gender and sports
Gender and healthcare
The impact of gender on parenting
Gender and language
Gender and religion
Gender and disability
Gender and aging
Gender and globalization
Gender and social class
Gender and environmental issues
Gender and war
Gender and peacebuilding
Gender and migration
Gender and entrepreneurship
Gender and leadership
Gender and the criminal justice system
Gender and social media
Gender and the arts
Gender and fashion
Gender and popular culture
Gender and body modification
Gender and social norms
Gender and social change
Gender and the family
Gender and marriage
Gender and divorce
Gender and friendship
Gender and sexuality
Gender and reproduction
Gender and parenting
Gender and childhood
Gender and adolescence
Gender and young adulthood
Gender and midlife
Gender and old age
Gender and health
Gender and physical health
Gender and reproductive health
Gender and mental illness
Gender and chronic illness
Gender and addiction
Gender and trauma
Gender and resilience
Gender and coping strategies
Gender and social support
Gender and healthcare access
Gender and healthcare disparities
Gender and healthcare quality
Gender and healthcare outcomes
Gender and healthcare costs
Gender and healthcare policy
Gender and healthcare reform
Gender and healthcare innovation
Gender and healthcare workforce
Gender and healthcare leadership
Gender and healthcare education
Gender and healthcare research
Gender and healthcare ethics
Gender and healthcare advocacy
Gender and healthcare activism
Gender and healthcare organizations
Gender and healthcare technology
Gender and healthcare communication
Gender and healthcare decision-making

These gender essay topic ideas and examples cover a wide range of issues and perspectives related to gender. Whether you are interested in exploring the impact of gender stereotypes on children's development or the intersection of gender and race, there is no shortage of topics to choose from. By delving into these gender essay topics, you can deepen your understanding of the complexities of gender and its influence on society.

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This essay offers a very basic introduction to feminist literary theory, and a compendium of Great Writers Inspire resources that can be approached from a feminist perspective. It provides suggestions for how material on the Great Writers Inspire site can be used as a starting point for exploration of or classroom discussion about feminist approaches to literature. Questions for reflection or discussion are highlighted in the text. Links in the text point to resources in the Great Writers Inspire site. The resources can also be found via the ' Feminist Approaches to Literature' start page . Further material can be found via our library and via the various authors and theme pages.

The Traditions of Feminist Criticism

According to Yale Professor Paul Fry in his lecture The Classical Feminist Tradition from 25:07, there have been several prominent schools of thought in modern feminist literary criticism:

First Wave Feminism: Men's Treatment of Women In this early stage of feminist criticism, critics consider male novelists' demeaning treatment or marginalisation of female characters. First wave feminist criticism includes books like Marry Ellman's Thinking About Women (1968) Kate Millet's Sexual Politics (1969), and Germaine Greer's The Female Eunuch (1970). An example of first wave feminist literary analysis would be a critique of William Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew for Petruchio's abuse of Katherina.
The 'Feminine' Phase - in the feminine phase, female writers tried to adhere to male values, writing as men, and usually did not enter into debate regarding women's place in society. Female writers often employed male pseudonyms during this period.
The 'Feminist' Phase - in the feminist phase, the central theme of works by female writers was the criticism of the role of women in society and the oppression of women.
The 'Female' Phase - during the 'female' phase, women writers were no longer trying to prove the legitimacy of a woman's perspective. Rather, it was assumed that the works of a women writer were authentic and valid. The female phase lacked the anger and combative consciousness of the feminist phase.

Do you agree with Showalter's 'phases'? How does your favourite female writer fit into these phases?

Read Jane Eyre with the madwoman thesis in mind. Are there connections between Jane's subversive thoughts and Bertha's appearances in the text? How does it change your view of the novel to consider Bertha as an alter ego for Jane, unencumbered by societal norms? Look closely at Rochester's explanation of the early symptoms of Bertha's madness. How do they differ from his licentious behaviour?

How does Jane Austen fit into French Feminism? She uses very concise language, yet speaks from a woman's perspective with confidence. Can she be placed in Showalter's phases of women's writing?

Dr. Simon Swift of the University of Leeds gives a podcast titled 'How Words, Form, and Structure Create Meaning: Women and Writing' that uses the works of Virginia Woolf and Silvia Plath to analyse the form and structural aspects of texts to ask whether or not women writers have a voice inherently different from that of men (podcast part 1 and part 2 ).

In Professor Deborah Cameron's podcast English and Gender , Cameron discusses the differences and similarities in use of the English language between men and women.

In another of Professor Paul Fry's podcasts, Queer Theory and Gender Performativity , Fry discusses sexuality, the nature of performing gender (14:53), and gendered reading (46:20).

How do more modern A-level set texts, like those of Margaret Atwood, Zora Neale Hurston, or Maya Angelou, fit into any of these traditions of criticism?

Depictions of Women by Men

Students could begin approaching Great Writers Inspire by considering the range of women depicted in early English literature: from Chaucer's bawdy 'Wife of Bath' in The Canterbury Tales to Spenser's interminably pure Una in The Faerie Queene .

How might the reign of Queen Elizabeth I have dictated the way Elizabethan writers were permitted to present women? How did each male poet handle the challenge of depicting women?

By 1610 Thomas Middleton and Thomas Dekker's The Roaring Girl presented at The Fortune a play based on the life of Mary Firth. The heroine was a man playing a woman dressed as a man. In Dr. Emma Smith's podcast on The Roaring Girl , Smith breaks down both the gender issues of the play and of the real life accusations against Mary Frith.

In Dr. Emma Smith's podcast on John Webster's The Duchess of Malfi , a frequent A-level set text, Smith discusses Webster's treatment of female autonomy. Placing Middleton or Webster's female characters against those of Shakespeare could be brought to bear on A-level Paper 4 on Drama or Paper 5 on Shakespeare and other pre-20th Century Texts.

Smith's podcast on The Comedy of Errors from 11:21 alludes to the valuation of Elizabethan comedy as a commentary on gender and sexuality, and how The Comedy of Errors at first seems to defy this tradition.

What are the differences between depictions of women written by male and female novelists?

Students can compare the works of Charlotte and Emily Brontë or Jane Austen with, for example, Hardy's Tess of the d'Ubervilles or D. H. Lawrence's Lady Chatterley's Lover or Women in Love .

How do Lawrence's sexually charged novels compare with what Emma Smith said about Webster's treatment of women's sexuality in The Duchess of Malfi ?

Dr. Abigail Williams' podcast on Jonathan Swift's The Lady's Dressing-Room discusses the ways in which Swift uses and complicates contemporary stereotypes about the vanity of women.

Rise of the Woman Writer

With the movement from Renaissance to Restoration theatre, the depiction of women on stage changed dramatically, in no small part because women could portray women for the first time. Dr. Abigail Williams' adapted lecture, Behn and the Restoration Theatre , discusses Behn's use and abuse of the woman on stage.

What were the feminist advantages and disadvantages to women's introduction to the stage?

The essay Who is Aphra Behn? addresses the transformation of Behn into a feminist icon by later writers, especially Bloomsbury Group member Virginia Woolf in her novella/essay A Room of One's Own .

How might Woolf's description and analysis of Behn indicate her own feminist agenda?

Behn created an obstacle for later women writers in that her scandalous life did little to undermine the perception that women writing for money were little better than whores.

In what position did that place chaste female novelists like Frances Burney or Jane Austen ?

To what extent was the perception of women and the literary vogue for female heroines impacted by Samuel Richardson's Pamela ? Students could examine a passage from Pamela and evaluate Richardson's success and failures, and look for his influence in novels with which they are more familiar, like those of Austen or the Brontë sisters.

In Dr. Catherine's Brown's podcast on Eliot's Reception History , Dr. Brown discusses feminist criticism of Eliot's novels. In the podcast Genre and Justice , she discusses Eliot's use of women as scapegoats to illustrate the injustice of the distribution of happiness in Victorian England.

Professor Sir Richard Evans' Gresham College lecture The Victorians: Gender and Sexuality can provide crucial background for any study of women in Victorian literature.

Women Writers and Class

Can women's financial and social plights be separated? How do Jane Austen and Charlotte Brontë bring to bear financial concerns regarding literature depicting women in the 18th and 19th century?

How did class barriers affect the work of 18th century kitchen maid and poet Mary Leapor ?

Listen to the podcast by Yale's Professor Paul Fry titled "The Classical Feminist Tradition" . At 9:20, Fry questions whether or not any novel can be evaluated without consideration of financial and class concerns, and to what extent Virginia Woolf's A Room of One's Own suggests a female novelist can only create successful work if she is of independent means.

What are the different problems faced by a wealthy character like Austen's Emma , as opposed to a poor character like Brontë's Jane Eyre ?

Also see sections on the following writers:

Jane Austen
Charlotte Brontë
George Eliot
Thomas Hardy
D.H. Lawrence
Mary Leapor
Thomas Middleton
Katherine Mansfield
Olive Schreiner
William Shakespeare
John Webster
Virginina Woolf

If reusing this resource please attribute as follows: Feminist Approaches to Literature at http://writersinspire.org/content/feminist-approaches-literature by Kate O'Connor, licensed as Creative Commons BY-NC-SA (2.0 UK).

Literary Theory Series: Challenging Gender Dynamics in Literature

This series examines literary criticism from all angles, examining numerous analytical frameworks, modes of interpretation, and constraints. It belongs to the degree in English Studies offered by the Complutense University of Madrid. Once the series comes to completion, the reader may be able to analyze the components that contribute to a text's literary character, such as coherence and literality, and will develop a critical approach toward contemporary literary theory. The reader of these articles might grasp the shifting paradigms of fiction analysis within this theoretical framework, establishing a link between the philosophy of language and the evolution of analytical methods in literary criticism. This series aims to offer an insight into the complex relationship between style and the cultural environment, historical factors that have shaped the idea of style as well as the changing literary canon. By examining the complex ways in which literature, language, and culture interact with one another, this series aims to help the readers develop their capacity for critical thinking and interpretation.

This Literary Theory Series is divided into the following chapters:

Literary Theory Series: Unveiling the Collective Subconscious in Myth Criticism

Literary Theory Series: Challenging Gender Dynamics in Literature

Literary Theory Series: Power Structures and Cultural Studies in Literary Analysis

Literary Theory Series: Umberto Eco's Influence on Reader Response Criticism

Literary Theory Series: Power Dynamics and Postcolonial Perspectives

Literary Theory Series: Contemporary Ecocriticism

This essay goes into the diverse realm of gender dynamics, power structures, and representations in literary texts, analyzing them via feminist critique and gender studies analytical lenses. The emphasis continues to be placed on the literary tradition of North America. Within this tradition, feminist literary criticism has found significant absorption in higher education and in some Spanish-speaking countries that have been influenced by it. Recognizing the necessity of understanding the social context of literary works, the emphasis remains on this tradition. This study criticizes repressive patriarchal systems and argues for a more equal society by reclaiming the literary contributions of women writers who are considered "proto-feminists" and pioneers of feminism. In addition, feminist studies extend beyond the literary canon since Golubov passionately fights for the reconstruction of women's history. She does this because she understands the significance of this understanding in terms of comprehending collective identities and societal structures. The influential gender theory of Judith Butler, which challenges the exclusive focus on women and highlights the culturally constructed character of gender, further deepens this conversation by bringing attention to the fact that gender is built. This revolutionary point of view advocates for the acknowledgment and celebration of multiple gender identities to foster a society that is more equal. It calls for a reevaluation of traditional assumptions about sex and gender.

This Bridge Called My Back: Radical Writings by Women of Color 1981 will be analyzed as a study case because it acts as a forceful catalyst by focusing light on the enormous impact of race, ethnicity, culture, socioeconomic background, and sexual orientation on gender inequality. It does this by combining literary analyses and gender theory with the writings of women of color who wrote them. This anthology, which was written by feminists from the third world as well as women of color, unapologetically brings to light the challenges that women of color confront when attempting to navigate the demands of society while also declaring who they truly are. It encourages inclusivity and generates vital dialogues on gender dynamics that go beyond standard binaries by welcoming multiple points of view and fostering thorough listening and comprehension. Together, these interconnected findings drive the feminist discourse toward a deeper understanding of gender and societal structures. They also underscore the urgency of fighting oppressive systems and embracing intersectionality in the pursuit of genuine empowerment and long-lasting social change. This essay aims to foster a more cohesive and inclusive vision for the future by examining literature, gender theory, and the narratives of women of color. Such a vision envisions a world in which diverse voices are heard and respected, thereby dismantling power structures that have been in place for a long time and paving the way for a society that is more just and equitable.

1. Feminist Literary Critique as a Lens

Because of the fundamental character of the problems that are being investigated and the inquisitive character of the research questions that have been raised in Feminist literary criticism, it is essential to take a methodology that draws on multiple disciplines. Golubov states that literary text cannot be disentangled from the specific sociocultural environment in which it was formed, disseminated. As a result, feminist literary criticism not only investigates the agency of female characters but also aims to challenge established gender roles and cultural standards (Golubov, 2013, p.p 8-9). Despite the fact that feminist literary criticism is practiced on a global scale, the focus of Golubov´s study is inscribed in the North American literary tradition. This is due to the accelerated integration of feminist literary criticism into higher education institutions as well as its extensive dissemination within Spanish-speaking countries, which was made possible by translation efforts (Golubov, 2013, p.8). In Golubov´s view, the field of study known as literary theory was ignored or left out of the realm of literary theory works by women writers. Thus, feminist literary criticism reclaims the literary contributions made by these authors, who are frequently seen as the forerunners or pioneers of feminism. According to Golubov, they could be classified as "proto-feminists" (Golubov, 2013, p.p 9-10). Many literary traditions have pioneers who laid the foundation for feminism. In their lives and works, one can discern a powerful critique of the oppressive system known as patriarchy. This system perpetuates social structures and practices that enable men to discriminate against, subjugate, and exert dominance over women. In them, we witness a powerful defiance against their oppressive social circumstances as they consciously choose to reject conformity (Golubov, 2013, p.10). According to Golubov´s revision of feminist literary criticism, it emerged as a potent force at the core of the women's liberation movements, with profound academic roots, especially in the United States. She remarks that it began with a strong political impetus, transforming the act of reading into a means of fundamentally revolutionizing social relations (Golubov, 2013, p.p 18-19). Golubov sheds light on the fact that in addition to a focus on reinterpreting literature, there was a larger objective of reshaping the entire universe.

She highlights that by challenging traditional norms and perceptions entrenched in literary works, feminist criticism aimed to pave the way for a more equitable and inclusive society in which gender-based inequalities would be dismantled, and women's voices and experiences would be celebrated (Golubov, 2013, p.19). She argues that the institution of the family is widely accepted as a paradigmatic representation of female enslavement. This is due to the institution of the family playing a vital role in shaping gender identity during the process of socialization and perpetuating gendered labor divisions (Golubov, 2013, p.16). In stark contrast to the logical, competitive, and generally male-dominated public sphere, the home family was considered a sentimental and intimate shelter. Golubov observes that this was due to the fact that the public sphere was traditionally male-dominated. Unfortunately, society retained the biased ideas that women lacked the intellectual and moral qualities essential to participate in political affairs. Because of these beliefs, women were denied access to the same spaces and advantages as their male counterparts. Women from middle-class families faced severe obstacles, including a dearth of opportunities to obtain a conventional education and work that paid well. As a direct consequence of this, a significant number of them had no choice but to look for a financially beneficial marriage as the sole means by which they might raise their social and economic position. This structural inequity maintained a cycle of gender-based constraints, which prevented women from reaching their full potential in a variety of areas of life (Golubov, 2013, p.12). In conclusion, Golubov's examination of feminist literary criticism sheds light on the historical neglect of works by women authors within the domain of literary theory. By reclaiming the literary contributions of these authors and acknowledging them as "proto-feminists," feminist literary criticism recognizes their role as forerunners of feminism. This analysis of literary characters exposes a potent critique of the patriarchal system, which perpetuates gender-based inequalities and social structures that marginalize women. In addition, Golubov emphasizes the transformative power of feminist literary criticism, which arose as a potent force during women's liberation movements, challenging traditional norms and fundamentally transforming social relations. Not only did it seek to reinterpret literature but also to reshape society as a whole, striving for a more equitable and inclusive world that celebrates diverse gender identities.

2. Regarding Gender as a Social Construct

Golubov argues that it is essential for feminism to reconstruct a history of women because doing so enables us to gain a better understanding of the formation of significant collective identities. This, in return, helps to strengthen the framework of cultural and material practices that have structured a great number of societies throughout history and that continue to structure a great number of societies even today (Golubov, 2013, p.10). Golubov recognizes the significance of a dilemma that Judith Butler's influential theory of gender poses. In a feminist context, Judith Butler's influential theory of gender casts light on a crucial issue regarding feminism's central focus on women. Butler observes astutely that using "women" as the central motif of feminism presents a challenge. This is primarily due to the influence of normative standards, which have historically been associated with a limited and exclusive conception of femininity. In Judith Butler's groundbreaking work, Gender Trouble 1990, the powerful influence of early feminist ideologies becomes apparent as they permeate various literary traditions. These literary figures demonstrate a critical and post-critical perspective on what is now acknowledged as patriarchy - a multifaceted system of social structures and traditions in which men enforce discrimination, subjugation, and control over women. In addition, Judith Butler's seminal work on gender theory offers valuable insights into the construction of gender and its relationship to sex. Her critique of the binary conception of sex and the performative nature of gender highlights the role of cultural invention and societal norms in shaping these concepts. These historical figures courageously challenge the oppressive shackles of their assigned social roles, fearlessly defying the confinements imposed by societal norms. Butler investigates the historical creation of the concept of sex as a binary system and poses important concerns regarding the concept's political and social ramifications throughout the course of history. Butler methodically examines the prevalent notion of sex as an inherent and fixed binary option while also questioning whether or not this construct has ever served particular political or social objectives in the past (Butler, 1990, p.11).

Butler engages with the ideas of Simone de Beauvoir in her writing. She acknowledges De Beauvoir's seminal work, The Second Sex 1979, which she regards as one of the cornerstones of feminist theory because it examines the historical and contemporary experiences of women in patriarchal societies in detail. Highly influenced by this, Butler utilizes de Beauvoir's notion of "becoming a woman" to construct her own theory of gender performativity. De Beauvoir famously stated, "A woman is not born, but rather made" (De Beauvoir, 1979). This concept challenges the notion that gender is a fixed and inherent aspect of being, arguing instead that it is socially constructed and acquired through cultural practices and norms (Butler, 1990, pp. 11-12). Thus, Butler challenges the traditional belief that gender disparities are solely the result of biological differences and consequently challenges the notion that women are inherently inferior to males. She observes Beauvoir´s approach toward gender roles in society, especially her idea that when a woman attempts to express herself outside of her traditional gender role, she is frequently criticized and accused of emulating masculine behaviors: “Man is defined as a human being and woman is defined as a female. Whenever she tries to behave as a human being, she is accused of trying to emulate the male” (Beauvoir, 1979). By engaging with de Beauvoir's work, Butler contributes to the ongoing discussion within feminism regarding the nature of gender and how it is constructed and reinforced in society. This perspective challenges traditional conceptions of gender, which are typically based on essentialist assumptions that equate gender with biological sex. Consequently, our take on the whole world and how we perceive ourselves in relation to it are intricately intertwined with the way we perform and exhibit our gender: “The body is not a thing, it is a situation: it is our grasp on the world and our sketch of our project” (De Beauvoir, 1979). In this quote by Simone de Beauvoir, she argues that the body is not a fixed or immutable entity but rather a dynamic "situation."

Butler's view echoes De Beauvoir´s assertion that the body is a type of dynamic situation. She contends that the fundamental concept of "sex," because it is a cultural construction, is one that should be open to investigation and debate. By doing so, Butler is advocating for a nuanced and critical investigation of the concept, examining its roots as well as the power dynamics that have been responsible for shaping it. She wants to highlight how the idea of "sex" has been entwined with gender, which further reinforces the inflexible standards and expectations around femininity and masculinity by unraveling the historical roots of this binary understanding. To do this, she will unravel the historical underpinnings of this binary understanding (Butler, 1990, p.p 10-11). It is clear, when viewed through the lens of Butler's perspective that the establishment of "sex" as a unique category that is inextricably related to gender is not an objective reality but rather the result of cultural invention. This knowledge encourages the fight to dismantle the oppressive institutions that are rooted in these constructs, and it calls for a reevaluation of traditional beliefs concerning sex and gender. Butler scrutinizes critically the notion that gender meanings are rigidly imprinted on bodies based on anatomical differences, depicting these bodies as passive recipients of cultural norms over which they have no control. Like the outmoded "biology is destiny" theory, this perspective perpetuates the notion that one's gender is predetermined and unchangeable: “On some accounts, the notion that gender meanings inscribed on anatomically differentiated bodies, where those bodies are understood as passive recipients of an inexorable cultural law” (Butler, 1990, p.11). Butler contends that extending representation only to those who conform to these normative norms ignores and perpetuates the exclusion of those who do not fit these predefined roles. The concept of "women" as a unitary and unproblematic identity is frequently used to promote solidarity. However, in feminist discourse, a division arises due to the distinction between sex and gender. Originally intended to challenge the notion that biology determines fate, the sex-gender distinction contends that while sex may appear to be biologically fixed, gender is culturally constructed and is therefore not causally determined by sex (Butler, 1990, p.8). Butler argues that exclusion shapes gendered subjects, resulting in the marginalization of those who do not conform to traditional notions of femininity (Butler, 1990, p.12).

Therefore, a feminist analysis must be sensitive to the spectrum of gender experiences, adopting an inclusive approach that celebrates identities beyond the binary framework. According to this perspective, gender is a complex and diverse array of sex interpretations (Butler, 1990, p.8). According to Butler's theory of gender performativity, the distinction between sex and gender threatens the coherence and unity of the subject. Instead of emphasizing biology, Butler's approach emphasizes the impact of culture and social practices on our understanding and performance of gender in daily life (Butler, 1990, pp. 11-12). According to her theory of gender, gender is not something we possess inherently, but rather a series of repeated actions and behaviors performed in accordance with societal norms and expectations. These gender performances become so engrained that they create the illusion of a fixed and stable gender identity. The body as "our sketch of our project" is consistent with Butler's emphasis on the performative character of gender. Our bodies become the canvas upon which we act out and express our gender identity, molding and reshaping it through our interactions with the world (Butler, 1990, p. 34) .

Butler's engagement with Simone de Beauvoir's ideas contributes to a deeper understanding of gender performativity and its defiance against rigid societal conventions. Both Golubov and Butler emphasize the significance of reconstructing women's history and challenging traditional norms in order to create a more inclusive and equal society. Their perspectives contribute to the ongoing evolution of feminist theory by advocating for a greater understanding of gender dynamics and the recognition of diverse experiences that transcend traditional gender binaries. The book Bodies that Matter 1993 by Butler is an important extension of her earlier groundbreaking work that has been brought for consideration. Her analysis of gender identity and performativity is taken to further levels of investigation in this book, which builds upon the core ideas she presented in her previous work. Utilizing post - structuralist and feminist theory, she defends her position and critiques the socially constructed binary notion of sex. Butler emphasizes the exclusion of intersex individuals and those with diverse body experiences. By doing so, she challenges the traditional gender binary by recognizing the complex and diverse realities of individuals outside of the confines of a fixed social framework. Butler's core argument in this work revolves around the social construction of bodies through language, culture, and discourse. Due to the inability of these political terms to definitively and exhaustively establish the precise identity they strive to define, the struggle continues.

The political terms that are meant to establish a sure or coherent identity are troubled by this failure of discursive performativity to finally and fully establish the identity to which it refers. Iterability underscores the non-self identical status of such terms; the constitutive outside means that identity always requires precisely that which it cannot abide (Butler, 1993, p.140).

The passage illuminates the complexities of using political terms to forge a consistent and enduring identity. To provide a distinct sense of self, these terms contend with the limitations of language's performative capacity. Emphasizing the concept of iterability openly reveals their fluidity, indicating that their meaning is context-dependent and, therefore, subject to change. This resistance to a fixed essence makes establishing identity through their application difficult. In addition, the concept of the constitutive outside asserts that external influences beyond the words themselves play a crucial role in identity formation, necessitating the incorporation of elements that may challenge the desired identity. Throughout the entirety of the book, Butler draws from a variety of philosophical and literary sources to examine the mechanisms of power at work in the formation and control of gender and sexuality. She argues that gender identity is not dictated by biology (Butler, 1990, p. 8. The work of Butler sheds light on the illusion that stable gender identities exist and paves the way for challenging traditional gender norms and pushing for a more open-minded and fluid definition of gender in society. This is accomplished by highlighting the illusory nature of stable gender identities:

To prescribe an exclusive identification for a multiply constituted subject, as every subject is, is to enforce a reduction and a paralysis, and some feminist positions, including my own, have problematically prioritized gender as the identificatory site of political mobilization at the expense of race or sexuality or class or geopolitical positioning/displacement. (Butler, 1993, p.78)

In the quote above, she admits that some feminist positions, including her own, have made gender the principal site of political mobilization. While gender is unquestionably an essential aspect of identity and a central focus of feminist activism, the quote suggests that focusing solely on gender identification may lead to the diminution and paralysis of other equally essential aspects of a person's identity. Given that, every individual is comprised of multiple intersecting factors, such as gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and geopolitical position, prescribing an exclusive identifier for them could pose a problem. As stated in the preceding paragraph, Judith Butler is known for her emphasis on the performative nature of gender. By focusing solely on gender, other factors such as race, sexual orientation, social class, and geopolitical position or displacement may be overshadowed or neglected. This limitation can be problematic because it does not adequately address the complexity and intersectionality of the experiences and struggles of individuals. It suggests that by narrowly concentrating on a single identity marker, there is a risk of overlooking the interconnected and overlapping forms of oppression and marginalization that individuals may experience due to various aspects of their identity. This could be interpreted as a call to expand the inclusiveness and intersectionality of feminist activism and social justice movements. Instead of focusing merely on gender, it promotes recognizing and addressing the interconnectedness of multiple identity markers and social contexts. Adopting this methodology can result in a deeper understanding of individual experiences and a more effective strategy for addressing systemic inequalities and advocating for social change.

To wrap up this section it is key to bring to attention that Butler´s work has had a significant impact on feminist theory and opened up new avenues for comprehending and challenging gender norms and expectations. Feminist scholars and activists must actively challenge the limited comprehension of femininity and gender as defined by societal norms in light of Butler's ideas. By doing so, they can cultivate an environment that empowers and validates all gender expressions, shattering outmoded stereotypes and fostering genuine gender equality and acceptance. As a movement, feminism should aspire to be more intersectional and intersectional in recognizing the unique struggles faced by individuals at the intersections of race, class, sexual orientation, and other identities, amplifying their voices, and working toward a more just and inclusive society for all.

3. Case Study

The powerful affirmation of the impact of "race," ethnicity, culture, socio-economic background, and sexual orientation on exclusion from conventional gender standards was provided by the book This Bridge Called My Back: Radical Writings by Women of Color , which was released in 1981. The objective of the anthology, which was written by feminists from the third world and women of color from the United States, was to shed light on the subtle connections that exist between different social classifications, which result in gender inequality within the context of the social hierarchy. It delved into the difficult struggles that were encountered by women of color, who frequently had to conceal or alter portions of their own selves in order to adhere to the conventions of societal expectations. Gloria Anzaldúa, along with co-editor Cherrie Moraga, co-edited the groundbreaking anthology to give a voice to women of color and address the multiple forms of oppression they confronted themselves. Anzaldúa's desire to challenge the dominant narratives that frequently erased or marginalized the experiences of women of color in feminism, academia, and society led to the publication of this book in 1981. All these pieces investigated the difficulties encountered when attempting to navigate numerous layers of identity while simultaneously pursuing self-determination and empowerment amid oppressive societal structures. Along with other feminist and postmodern authors, Anzaldúa brought attention to the lack of privileged areas for women, particularly women of color. This part of the anthology went into depth about the difficulties and contradictions that were experienced by women of color as they attempted to assert their genuine selves inside a culture that expected conformity.

The anthology made an important contribution to the development of feminist theory by including a variety of perspectives. As a result, it aided in the development of a deeper understanding of gender dynamics that went beyond the confines of traditional binaries. It renders the experiences of underrepresented populations, emphasizing their triumphs and struggles while inspiring readers to embrace their real selves and act toward meaningful social change. In addition, it showcased the accomplishments of the people that were underrepresented. As a result, the anthology served as a potent instrument in the promotion of inclusivity and the pushing for advancement in feminist debate as well as cultural ideas of gender. Not only did this confrontation revolutionize feminist theory, but it also spurred a transformation of various feminist approaches, resulting in a substantial revision of mainstream gender theory. Anzaldúa intended to elevate the voices of women of color and highlight the significance of their contributions to feminist and social justice movements by compiling a wide variety of essays, poetry, and artwork from women of color. The book became a seminal text in feminist theory, ethnic studies, and queer theory, inspiring future generations of activists and academics to recognize the significance of intersectionality and inclusivity in their efforts to create a more equitable and just world. In the second part of the book, the author investigates how women from the Third World develop a unique feminist political theory that is derived from their racial, cultural, and personal experiences. It places an emphasis on specificity, as well as the psychological freedom that is associated with gender.

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The goal of gender theory is to bring about fundamental changes in contemporary society. Refusing to draw a line between gender identity and sexual orientation turns into a powerful symbol, showing the need for women of color to actively participate in more significant gender discourse and urging feminists to embrace an intersectional point of view. This highlights the necessity for women of color to actively participate in more significant gender discourse. One of the most destructive methods of disempowering women and members of minority groups is to let them to communicate freely but not genuinely listen to what it is that they have to say. This is one of the most detrimental ways of disempowering women and members of minority groups. This is one of the most covert methods of exerting power over a person. The authors and artists that contributed to "This Bridge" depict the struggle of women against many forms of oppression in its entirety. Anzaldúa has held this view ever since she was a child:

En boca cerrada no entran moscas. "Flies don't enter a closed mouth" is a saying I kept hearing when I was a child. Ser habladora was to be a gossip and a liar, to talk too much. Muchachitas bien criadas, well-bred girls don't answer back. Es una falta de respeto to talk back to one's mother or father. I remember one of the sins I'd recite to the priest in the confession box the few times I went to confession: talking back to my mother, hablar pa' 'trás, repelar. Hocicona, repelona, chismosa, having a big mouth, questioning, carrying tales are all signs of being mal criada. In my culture they are all words that are derogatory if applied to women--I've never heard them applied to men (Anzaldúa, 1987, p.76).

From a fiercely feminist perspective, "En boca cerrada no entran moscas" exemplifies the profoundly entrenched patriarchy's efforts throughout history to silence and subjugate women. This outdated proverb is a potent instrument of oppression, indoctrinating young females to suppress their voices, passions, and aspirations. By labeling women as, "habladora," "hocicona," and "chismosa," society perpetuates a toxic narrative that attempts to diminish the brilliance and fortitude of outspoken women, dismissing their intelligence and assertiveness as undesirable characteristics. Furthermore, the persistent imposition of being "muchachitas bien criadas" removes them of their autonomy, enforcing servitude and blind obedience to male authority. We must vehemently resist and dismantle these oppressive structures to forge a new reality, one in which the power of women's voices resonates unapologetically, in which questioning and speaking back are celebrated as acts of empowerment, and in which all individuals, regardless of gender, are liberated to realize their full potential and shape a world of true equality and justice. In Anzaldúa´s view, to realize true equality and justice, it is imperative that we fiercely oppose these oppressive systems and work to bring them down. She encourages the creation of a new reality in which the power of women's voices resounds unapologetically, in which questioning and speaking back are celebrated as acts of empowerment, and in which all individuals, irrespective of gender, are liberated to realize their full potential and shape a world that embraces the strength and diversity of its people. She even herself was shocked at hearing two women of distinct Hispanic backgrounds use the word nosotras, it demonstrated to her the extent to which the dominant language norms frequently erase or diminish the presence of women. This passage by Gloria Anzaldúa demonstrates how language's inherent power dynamics can perpetuate gender inequality and erode female identity. Nosotros is the plural form of "we" in Spanish, regardless of whether the group is composed of males, females, or a blend of genders. This linguistic practice effectively erases and negates women's distinct presence by subsuming their identity under the masculine plural:

The first time I heard two women, a Puerto Rican and a Cuban, say the word "nosotras," I was shocked. I had not known the word existed. Chicanas use nosotros whether we're male or female. We are robbed of our female being by the masculine plural. Language is a male discourse (Anzaldúa, 1987, p.76).

Anzaldúa's observation that Chicanas use nosotros for both genders illustrates the inherent bias in language, in which the masculine experience is assumed to be the norm and women are rendered invisible or relegated to the background. This erasure denies women recognition of their uniqueness and reinforces a patriarchal perspective that prioritizes and centers male experiences. Besides, the statement: "Language is a male discourse" highlights how historically, societal structures and cultural norms have privileged male perspectives, including language usage. The construction and application of words can reflect and perpetuate gender hierarchies, resulting in the marginalization and subordination of women's voices and experiences. Hence, Anzaldúa constantly states that it is essential to challenge and transform language so that it is more inclusive, recognizing and validating the unique experiences and identities of women. Efforts to establish gender-neutral or gender-inclusive language can assist in escaping the constraints of traditional linguistic norms and foster a society in which all genders are seen, heard, and valued equally. Through such deliberate linguistic changes, we can pave the way for a more just and equitable world, one in which women are no longer constrained or deprived of their female identity by language's inherently male-centric discourse. As has been brought to attention in this section, the contributors of the aforementioned anthology are women of color who identify as radical and share their viewpoints, experiences, and problems throughout the book. The anthology acts as a platform for their perspectives, opposing mainstream narratives that seek to marginalize women of color, including undocumented immigrants (also known "las mojadas"). The writers, via their words, bring attention to the fact that these women confront not only sexual aggression but also a physical inability to defend th emselves (Anzaldúa, 1987, p.p 34-35). T hey work together to challenge patriarchal norms, advance the rights of immigrants, and cultivate a society that is more caring and welcoming to those who are different from it:

La mojada, la mujer indocumentada, is doubly threatened in this country. Not only does she have to contend with sexual violence, but like all women, she is prey to a sense of physical helplessness. As a refugee, she leaves the familiar and safe homeground to venture into unknown and possibly dangerous terrain. (Anzaldúa, 1987, p.p 34-35)

The quote above by Anzaldúa showcases the double threat that undocumented immigrant women face in a new country: sexual violence and physical helplessness. The intersection of gender and immigration status exacerbates their vulnerability, denying them access to justice and support (Anzaldúa, 1987, p.33) . This intentional linguistic shift is essential for addressing the dual threat encountered by "la mojada" - sexual violence and physical helplessness exacerbated by the intersection of gender and immigration status, which denies them access to justice and support. Anzaldúa remarks that to address these issues, it is necessary to challenge patriarchal norms, advocate for immigrant rights, and create a society that is more inclusive (Anzaldúa, 1987, p.p 34-35) . Hence, from a feminist perspective, it is essential to challenge and transform language to be more inclusive, recognizing and validating the unique experiences and identities of women. A society that is compassionate and egalitarian, in which people of all genders and immigrants are respected equally, can be created by making efforts toward gender-inclusive language and confronting patriarchal conventions. (Anzaldúa, 1987, p.p 34-35). The feminist viewpoint of Anzaldúa asks for fundamental changes to be made in society, including the adoption of gender-inclusive terminology, the challenge of patriarchal conventions, and the advocacy for immigrant rights. She draws attention to the repressive power of language, which, by erasing women's distinct presence, fosters discourse that is male-centric. Her anthology intends to address and destroy mainstream stereotypes that marginalize women, particularly undocumented immigrants, by offering a forum for women of color to share their experiences and perspectives. Creating a culture that is compassionate, egalitarian, and appreciates people of all genders and immigration statuses equally can be accomplished through efforts toward gender-inclusive vocabulary and inclusive activism.

4. Conclusion

This essay has examined three concepts that are interrelated: the significance of feminist literary criticism; the applicability of Butler's theories to feminist literary theory, and a case study illustrating the efficacy of feminist criticism and gender studies in the process of studying literary texts. Understanding the societal background of literary works and challenging preconceived notions about gender roles and conventions is made significantly easier through the application of literary criticism. A complete examination of the intricacies of gender dynamics and power structures within literary texts requires a methodology that draws on a number of different academic disciplines. Butler's influential theories have had a substantial impact on feminist literary theory. By calling into question the binary conception of sex and underlining the performative character of gender, Butler's theories have contributed considerably to the development of feminist literary theory. Her body of work raises questions about essentialist assumptions and pushes for an understanding of gender identities that is more inclusive. Feminist scholars can create a more compassionate and intersectional approach to demolishing harmful stereotypes and fostering genuine equality if they take Butler's ideas and incorporate them into their work. The case study shows how feminist literature may provide a platform for marginalized voices, such as those of women of color, to communicate their experiences and challenge the expectations that society has placed on them. It places a strong emphasis on attentive listening as well as genuine conversation as a means to advance understanding and inclusivity within the realm of feminist discourse.

This article has sought to identify and combat prejudices that marginalize and portray women and other gender identities incorrectly. To accept the fluidity and diversity of human experiences and identities, feminist thinkers and activists can advance a more inclusive and liberating understanding of gender by adopting Butler's theories. This will allow them to work toward a more inclusive and liberating understanding of gender. We may come closer to a society that embraces and celebrates the complexity of human beings by deconstructing the binary notion of sex and acknowledging the cultural context in which it exists. This will allow us to dismantle damaging stereotypes and promote genuine equality and respect for all individuals. This kind of feminist approach not only contests the pre-existing power structures but also paves the way for methods that are more all-encompassing and compassionate in their approach to resolving the specific difficulties that persons across the gender spectrum are confronted with. In general, feminist literary criticism has the potential to transform the literary canon and build a culture that is more equal and inclusive when it is led by Butler's theories and magnified via the contributions of a varied range of perspectives. Literary criticism that takes a feminist perspective seeks to promote significant social change and a deeper understanding of the complexity of human identity by questioning accepted cultural standards and highlighting the variety of ways in which people experience gender. Feminist literary criticism continues to develop and pave the way for a society that is more just and compassionate thanks to continual investigation and conversation within the field.

Bibliographic References

Anzaldúa, G. (1987). Borderlands/La Frontera: The New Mestiza. First Edition, San Francisco: Spinsters/Aunt Luke Book Company.

Beauvoir, S. (1974). The Second Sex. Translated by H.M Parshley. New York: Vintage Books.

Butler, J. (1990). Gender Trouble: Feminism and the Subversion of Identity. New York: Routledge.

Butler, J. (1993). Bodies that Matter: On the Discursive Limits of Sex. New York: Routledge.

Butler, J. (2004). Undoing Gender. New York: Routledge.

Chodorow, N. J. (1999). The Reproduction of Mothering. Berkeley: University of California Press.

Goluvob, N. (2012). La Crítica Literaria Feminista Una Introducción Práctica. Coyoacán: UNAM.

Moraga, C., & Anzaldúa, G. (2015). This bridge called my back: writings by radical women of color. Fourth edition. Albany, State University of New York (SUNY) Press.

Gaviria Stewart, E., Cuadrado Guirado, I., & López Sáez, M. (2013). Introducción a la Psicología Social. Segunda edición. Madrid: Sanz y Torres.

Rebolledo, T. D. & Rivero, E. S. (1993). INFINITE DIVISIONS An Anthology of Chicana Literature. Arizona: The University of Arizona Press.

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Gender Studies: Foundations and Key Concepts

Gender studies developed alongside and emerged out of Women’s Studies. This non-exhaustive list introduces readers to scholarship in the field.

Jack Halberstam, Afsaneh Najmabadi-Evaz and bell hooks

Gender studies asks what it means to make gender salient, bringing a critical eye to everything from labor conditions to healthcare access to popular culture. Gender is never isolated from other factors that determine someone’s position in the world, such as sexuality, race, class, ability, religion, region of origin, citizenship status, life experiences, and access to resources. Beyond studying gender as an identity category, the field is invested in illuminating the structures that naturalize, normalize, and discipline gender across historical and cultural contexts.

At a college or university, you’d be hard pressed to find a department that brands itself as simply Gender Studies. You’d be more likely to find different arrangements of the letters G, W, S, and perhaps Q and F, signifying gender, women, sexuality, queer, and feminist studies. These various letter configurations aren’t just semantic idiosyncrasies. They illustrate the ways the field has grown and expanded since its institutionalization in the 1970s.

This non-exhaustive list aims to introduce readers to gender studies in a broad sense. It shows how the field has developed over the last several decades, as well as how its interdisciplinary nature offers a range of tools for understanding and critiquing our world.

Catharine R. Stimpson, Joan N. Burstyn, Domna C. Stanton, and Sandra M. Whisler, “Editorial.” Signs , 1975; “Editorial,” off our backs , 1970

The editorial from the inaugural issue of Signs , founded in 1975 by Catharine Stimpson, explains that the founders hoped that the journal’s title captured what women’s studies is capable of doing: to “represent or point to something.” Women’s studies was conceptualized as an interdisciplinary field that could represent issues of gender and sexuality in new ways, with the possibility of shaping “scholarship, thought, and policy.”

The editorial in the first issue of off our backs , a feminist periodical founded in 1970, explains how their collective wanted to explore the “dual nature of the women’s movement:” that “women need to be free of men’s domination” and “must strive to get off our backs.” The content that follows includes reports on the Equal Rights Amendment, protests, birth control, and International Women’s Day.

Robyn Wiegman, “Academic Feminism against Itself.” NWSA Journal , 2002

Gender studies developed alongside and emerged out of Women’s Studies, which consolidated as an academic field of inquiry in the 1970s. Wiegman tracks some of the anxieties that emerged with the shift from women’s to gender studies, such as concerns it would decenter women and erase the feminist activism that gave rise to the field. She considers these anxieties as part of a larger concern over the future of the field, as well as fear that academic work on gender and sexuality has become too divorced from its activist roots.

Jack Halberstam, “Gender.” Keywords for American Cultural Studies, Second Edition (2014)

Halberstam’s entry in this volume provides a useful overview for debates and concepts that have dominated the field of gender studies: Is gender purely a social construct? What is the relationship between sex and gender? How does the gendering of bodies shift across disciplinary and cultural contexts? How did the theorizing of gender performativity in the 1990s by Judith Butler open up intellectual trajectories for queer and transgender studies? What is the future of gender as an organizing rubric for social life and as a mode of intellectual inquiry? Halberstam’s synthesis of the field makes a compelling case for why the study of gender persists and remains relevant for humanists, social scientists, and scientists alike.

Miqqi Alicia Gilbert, “Defeating Bigenderism: Changing Gender Assumptions in the Twenty-First Century.” Hypatia , 2009

Scholar and transgender activist Miqqi Alicia Gilbert considers the production and maintenance of the gender binary—that is, the idea that there are only two genders and that gender is a natural fact that remains stable across the course of one’s life. Gilbert’s view extends across institutional, legal, and cultural contexts, imagining what a frameworks that gets one out of the gender binary and gender valuation would have to look like to eliminate sexism, transphobia, and discrimination.

Judith Lorber, “Shifting Paradigms and Challenging Categories.” Social Problems , 2006

Judith Lorber identifies the key paradigm shifts in sociology around the question of gender: 1) acknowledging gender as an “organizing principle of the overall social order in modern societies;” 2) stipulating that gender is socially constructed, meaning that while gender is assigned at birth based on visible genitalia, it isn’t a natural, immutable category but one that is socially determined; 3) analyzing power in modern western societies reveals the dominance of men and promotion of a limited version of heterosexual masculinity; 4) emerging methods in sociology are helping disrupt the production of ostensibly universal knowledge from a narrow perspective of privileged subjects. Lorber concludes that feminist sociologists’ work on gender has provided the tools for sociology to reconsider how it analyzes structures of power and produces knowledge.

bell hooks, “Sisterhood: Political Solidarity between Women.” Feminist Review , 1986

bell hooks argues that the feminist movement has privileged the voices, experiences, and concerns of white women at the expense of women of color. Instead of acknowledging who the movement has centered, white women have continually invoked the “common oppression” of all women, a move they think demonstrates solidarity but actually erases and marginalizes women who fall outside of the categories of white, straight, educated, and middle-class. Instead of appealing to “common oppression,” meaningful solidarity requires that women acknowledge their differences, committing to a feminism that “aims to end sexist oppression.” For hooks, this necessitates a feminism that is anti-racist. Solidarity doesn’t have to mean sameness; collective action can emerge from difference.

Jennifer C. Nash, “re-thinking intersectionality.” Feminist Review , 2008

Chances are you’ve come across the phrase “intersectional feminism.” For many, this term is redundant: If feminism isn’t attentive to issues impacting a range of women, then it’s not actually feminism. While the term “intersectional” now circulates colloquially to signify a feminism that is inclusive, its usage has become divorced from its academic origins. The legal scholar Kimberlé Crenshaw created the term “intersectionality” in the 1980s based on Black women’s experiences with the law in cases of discrimination and violence. Intersectionality is not an adjective or a way to describe identity, but a tool for analyzing structures of power. It aims to disrupt universal categories of and claims about identity. Jennifer Nash provides an overview of intersectionality’s power, including guidance on how to deploy it in the service of coalition-building and collective action.

Treva B. Lindsey, “Post-Ferguson: A ‘Herstorical’ Approach to Black Violability.” Feminist Studies , 2015

Treva Lindsey considers the erasure of Black women’s labor in anti-racist activism , as well as the erasure of their experiences with violence and harm. From the Civil Rights Movement to #BlackLivesMatter, Black women’s contributions and leadership have not been acknowledged to the same extent as their male counterparts. Furthermore, their experiences with state-sanctioned racial violence don’t garner as much attention. Lindsey argues that we must make visible the experiences and labor of Black women and queer persons of color in activist settings in order to strengthen activist struggles for racial justice.

Renya Ramirez, “Race, Tribal Nation, and Gender: A Native Feminist Approach to Belonging.” Meridians , 2007

Renya Ramirez (Winnebago) argues that indigenous activist struggles for sovereignty, liberation, and survival must account for gender. A range of issues impact Native American women, such as domestic abuse, forced sterilization , and sexual violence. Furthermore, the settler state has been invested in disciplining indigenous concepts and practices of gender, sexuality, and kinship, reorienting them to fit into white settler understandings of property and inheritance. A Native American feminist consciousness centers gender and envisions decolonization without sexism.

Hester Eisenstein, “A Dangerous Liaison? Feminism and Corporate Globalization.” Science & Society , 2005

Hester Eisenstein argues that some of contemporary U.S. feminism’s work in a global context has been informed by and strengthened capitalism in a way that ultimately increases harms against marginalized women. For example, some have suggested offering poor rural women in non-U.S. contexts microcredit as a path to economic liberation. In reality, these debt transactions hinder economic development and “continue the policies that have created the poverty in the first place.” Eisenstein acknowledges that feminism has the power to challenge capitalist interests in a global context, but she cautions us to consider how aspects of the feminist movement have been coopted by corporations.

Afsaneh Najmabadi, “Transing and Transpassing Across Sex-Gender Walls in Iran.” Women’s Studies Quarterly , 2008

Afsaneh Najmabadi remarks on the existence of sex-reassignment surgeries in Iran since the 1970s and the increase in these surgeries in the twenty-first century. She explains that these surgeries are a response to perceived sexual deviance; they’re offered to cure persons who express same-sex desire. Sex-reassignment surgeries ostensibly “heteronormaliz[e]” people who are pressured to pursue this medical intervention for legal and religious reasons. While a repressive practice, Najmabadi also argues that this practice has paradoxically provided “ relatively safer semipublic gay and lesbian social space” in Iran. Najmabadi’s scholarship illustrates how gender and sexual categories, practices, and understandings are influenced by geographical and cultural contexts.

Susan Stryker, Paisley Currah, and Lisa Jean Moore’s “Introduction: Trans-, Trans, or Transgender?” Women’s Studies Quarterly , 2008

Susan Stryker, Paisley Currah, and Lisa Jean Moore map the ways that transgender studies can expand feminist and gender studies. “Transgender” does not need to exclusively signify individuals and communities, but can provide a lens for interrogating all bodies’ relationships to gendered spaces, disrupting the bounds of seemingly strict identity categories, and redefining gender. The “trans-” in transgender is a conceptual tool for interrogating the relationship between bodies and the institutions that discipline them.

David A. Rubin, “‘An Unnamed Blank That Craved a Name’: A Genealogy of Intersex as Gender.” Signs , 2012

David Rubin considers the fact that intersex persons have been subject to medicalization, pathologization, and “regulation of embodied difference through biopolitical discourses, practices, and technologies” that rely on normative cultural understandings of gender and sexuality. Rubin considers the impact intersexuality had on conceptualizations of gender in mid-twentieth century sexology studies, and how the very concept of gender that emerged in that moment has been used to regulate the lives of intersex individuals.

Rosemarie Garland-Thomson, “Feminist Disability Studies.” Signs , 2005

Rosemarie Garland-Thomson provides a thorough overview of the field of feminist disability studies. Both feminist and disability studies contend that those things which seem most natural to bodies are actually produced by a range of political, legal, medical, and social institutions. Gendered and disabled bodies are marked by these institutions. Feminist disability studies asks: How are meaning and value assigned to disabled bodies? How is this meaning and value determined by other social markers, such as gender, sexuality, race, class, religion, national origin, and citizenship status?

The field asks under what conditions disabled bodies are denied or granted sexual, reproductive, and bodily autonomy and how disability impacts the exploration of gender and sexual expression in childhood, adolescence, and adulthood historical and contemporary pathologization of genders and sexualities. It explores how disabled activists, artists, and writers respond to social, cultural, medical, and political forces that deny them access, equity, and representation

Karin A. Martin, “William Wants a Doll. Can He Have One? Feminists, Child Care Advisors, and Gender-Neutral Child Rearing.” Gender and Society , 2005

Karin Martin examines the gender socialization of children through an analysis of a range of parenting materials. Materials that claim to be (or have been claimed as) gender-neutral actually have a deep investment in training children in gender and sexual norms. Martin invites us to think about how adult reactions to children’s gender nonconformity pivots on a fear that gender expression in childhood is indicative of present or future non-normative sexuality. In other words, U.S. culture is unable to separate gender from sexuality. We imagine gender identity and expression maps predictably onto sexual desire. When children’s gender identity and expression exceeds culturally-determined permissible bounds in a family or community, adults project onto the child and discipline accordingly.

Sarah Pemberton, “Enforcing Gender: The Constitution of Sex and Gender in Prison Regimes.” Signs , 2013

Sarah Pemberton’s considers how sex-segregated prisons in the U.S. and England discipline their populations differently according to gender and sexual norms. This contributes to the policing, punishment, and vulnerability of incarcerated gender-nonconforming, transgender, and intersex persons. Issues ranging from healthcare access to increased rates of violence and harassment suggest that policies impacting incarcerated persons should center gender.

Dean Spade, “Some Very Basic Tips for Making High Education More Accessible to Trans Students and Rethinking How We Talk about Gendered Bodies.” The Radical Teacher , 2011

Lawyer and trans activist Dean Spade offers a pedagogical perspective on how to make classrooms accessible and inclusive for students. Spade also offers guidance on how to have classroom conversations about gender and bodies that don’t reassert a biological understanding of gender or equate certain body parts and functions with particular genders. While the discourse around these issues is constantly shifting, Spade provides useful ways to think about small changes in language that can have a powerful impact on students.

Sarah S. Richardson, “Feminist Philosophy of Science: History, Contributions, and Challenges.” Synthese , 2010

Feminist philosophy of science is a field comprised of scholars studying gender and science that has its origins in the work of feminist scientists in the 1960s. Richardson considers the contributions made by these scholars, such as increased opportunities for and representation of women in STEM fields , pointing out biases in seemingly neutral fields of scientific inquiry. Richardson also considers the role of gender in knowledge production, looking at the difficulties women have faced in institutional and professional contexts. The field of feminist philosophy of science and its practitioners are marginalized and delegitimized because of the ways they challenge dominant modes of knowledge production and disciplinary inquiry.

Bryce Traister’s “Academic Viagra: The Rise of American Masculinity Studies.” American Quarterly , 2000

Bryce Traister considers the emergence of masculinity studies out of gender studies and its development in American cultural studies. He argues that the field has remained largely invested in centering heterosexuality, asserting the centrality and dominance of men in critical thought. He offers ways for thinking about how to study masculinity without reinstituting gendered hierarchies or erasing the contributions of feminist and queer scholarship.

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All Travelers are Infiltrators: An Introduction to the Study of Travel Writing

A group of children, among them are some dressed in Highland regalia with others wearing sailor suits, during League of Nations Rally in Hyde Park London, England, June 1921. The children, all of Hampstead, hold small signs reading 'Peace' and 'No War' and are gathered before a large banner reading 'We Revel in Peace'.

Teaching Peace Between the Wars

Verbatim: Fredric Jameson

When “Traditional” Religion Shakes Up Gender Roles

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Gender Roles in Literature: Guide & Examples

Wouldn’t it be great if people of all genders could enjoy equal rights? When reading stories from the past, we can realize how far we’ve made since the dawn of feminism. Books that deal with the theme of gender inspire us to keep fighting for equality.

In this article, our custom-writing team will.

define gender as a theme;
examine the representation of women in literary works;
present the top 20 gender-related essay topics.
♀️ ♂️ Gender in Literature
👩 Representation of Women
The Yellow Wallpaper
To Kill a Mockingbird
✍️ Essay Topics

❓ Gender in Literature

🔍 references, ♀️♂️ gender in literature: definition.

In literature, gender refers to how authors and characters define themselves and how society evaluates them based on their gender. Sex, gender, and sexuality shape narrative texts and readers’ understanding of them in many ways.

The picture shows the definition of gender theme in literature.

Gender Roles in Society

Gender roles serve as individual codes of behavior determined by societal expectations of different sexes. It’s important to understand that sex , gender , and sexuality are not the same thing:

Sex is a biological concept determined by primary sex characteristics.
Gender refers to the identities, values, and roles which individuals ascribe to different sexes.
Sexuality refers to the orientation of desire towards a particular sex.

Strict gender roles resulted in a system that privileged straight white men over other categories of people. It affected individuals’ access to education, financial support, and career. Eventually, feminism has emerged worldwide to advocate for political, economic, social, and personal equality of all genders.

Gender Roles in Literature

Literature is a powerful instrument that allows authors to either reinforce or subvert gender roles specific to one time and place.

In the past, certain books negatively affected individuals’ perception of themselves in several ways:

Due to these factors, literature served as a backdrop for the emerging of gender criticism . This field of study had a significant impact on how people perceived gender roles.

Gender criticism is an extension of literary criticism, focusing on how cultures use symbols to define and impose the traits of a particular gender on a person. Here are some of the things that it addresses:

Gendered language. For example, it includes using masculine pronouns (he, him, his) to refer to people in general. This tendency occurred as a result of the historical patriarchy where being a man was a norm, and a woman was marked as “the other.”
Choice of characters . Male characters often took the leading role, establishing their masculinity and physical power. Female characters had to accept authority without any choice of freedom and independence.
Perception of the author’s gender . Men writers had a serious advantage in telling their own stories. In contrast, women’s writing was considered immoral, treated with bias, and harshly criticized. As a result, they had to publish under male pseudonyms to have a chance of professional acceptance among writers.

Gender Stereotyping in Literature

Literature had a significant impact on the promotion of gender stereotypes. For a long time, history books only contained biographies of men and ignored stories of women. As female authors were rare, most books that featured women put them in stereotypical roles.

Analysis of such texts can help us single out several categories of female stereotyping :

Gender stereotyping also led to a limited view of masculinity in literature . This, in turn, had a negative impact on how society raised boys. Men were often portrayed as dominant, authoritative, competitive, and aggressive. This depiction put a lot of pressure on men and prohibited a wide range of emotional expression.

Reverse Gender Roles in Literature

In an age when men were expected to be strong and decisive, and women passive and submissive, Shakespeare raises questions about the standard portrayal of genders. In his play Macbeth , he makes a submissive man and his dominant wife the two main antiheroes. He depicts two people who are unwilling to accommodate themselves to society’s expectations.

Shakespeare merged femininity and masculinity in his characters to show that people of each gender could possess both sets of traits. Modern literature has a more liberated approach to the subversion of gender roles, taking cues from Shakespeare and other great authors.

👩 Representation of Women in Literature

In the following sections, we will discuss how the representation of female characters in literature has evolved throughout history. We will also look into examples of how women authors were marginalized by the era in which they were living. Their vision and courage had a significant impact on the literary world and beyond.

Women in Medieval Literature

Throughout the Medieval period, women were treated as second-class citizens, and their needs were largely ignored. Despite the suppression, many literary works included women characters.

If we analyze literary texts from that period, we will find common female archetypes of medieval society. Here are some of the most prominent ones:

The Virgin is a pure woman whose primary function is to get married.
The Mother is a woman who does everything to support her children and her man.
The Witch is a wise, non-conforming, or unusually beautiful woman who is punished for her “otherness.”
The Whore is a woman considered lower than men, deviant, and unworthy of having a job.

One of the examples of an archetypal female character in medieval literature is Grendel’s mother from Beowulf . She subverts society’s ideals by protecting her son, who is a foe of humankind.

Women in Gothic Literature

Gothic authors allowed female characters to break free of stereotypical constraints. It also helped to add depth and suspense to a plot. There are two prominent female roles in Gothic literature: a predator and a victim .

The predator is dangerous yet powerfully attractive. According to an article on Research Gate, this role is connected to pain/pleasure paradox in Gothic literature , which is the endless search for happiness that prevents one from obtaining it.
The victim is vulnerable and fragile. This role gives the male heroes someone to save. Women who fill this role are often able to sympathize with monsters.

Gothic writers often blurred the line between the two types. Usually, they did it to show the tragedy of women trapped in their gender roles. For example, The Yellow Wallpaper by Charlotte Perkins Gilman is a story about female madness caused by patriarchal oppression.

Many gothic women writers were able to portray domestic entrapment and female sexuality in interesting and expressive ways. Authors such as the Bronte sisters, Mary Shelley, and Ann Radcliffe played a central part in popularizing women’s writing.

Strong Women in Literature

World literature has given us a variety of strong female characters. These fictional women took a radical stance for themselves and broke through the conventional boundaries of gender. Have a look at the examples of literature’s most inspiring women below:

Black Women in Literature

Black women writers first appeared in 1859 as a part of a general renaissance of black literature. Writing became a way to voice their rejection of slavery and racism, as well as their claim to freedom and equality.

In the mid-1800s, Harriet Jacobs’ Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl became an early example of a black woman’s strength over oppression. In the 20 th century, a growing number of black women artists emerged throughout the civil rights movement of the 1960s.

Black women’s literature inspired many people worldwide and had a major impact on the consciousness of African-American women. Toni Morrison’s slave novel Beloved became the most influential work of African-American literature of the late 20th century. Maya Angelou’s memoir I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings inspired generations of 21 st -century women writers.

📚 Gender Roles in Literature: Examples

In the following sections, we will unravel some examples of traditional gender roles from famous literary works. This analysis will help you examine your understanding of masculinity and femininity from a different angle.

Gender & Feminism in The Yellow Wallpaper

Charlotte Gilman’s gothic tale The Yellow Wallpaper was an early feminist indictment of Victorian Patriarchy. The author gives an account of a woman driven to madness by a Victorian “rest-cure.” According to the article from The Conversation, “rest-cures” were periods of inactivity prescribed to women with nervous conditions. This therapy was prescribed to Charlotte Gilman herself.

Although the autobiographical aspect of The Yellow Wallpaper is compelling, it is the symbolism that adds a lot of meaning to the story. The narrator’s husband puts his “hysteric” wife in a nursery room with yellow wallpapers. Charlotte Gilman uses the analogy of entrapment to critique the position of women within the institution of marriage.

All in all, the constraints placed upon the narrator by her husband are what drove her insane. She is forced to become passive and repress her emotional state. The protagonist has no choice but to retreat into her obsessive fantasy—the only place she can control.

If you found this topic interesting, you can learn more from our article on themes in The Yellow Wallpaper .

The Yellow Wallpaper: Gender Roles Quotes

Let’s look at the examples of some powerful quotes from the short story. They reflect the helplessness of a woman deprived of authority to execute her will:

I suppose I shall have to get back behind the pattern when John does not know how much I really suffer. He knows there is no REASON to suffer, and that satisfies him. It comes night, and that is hard! ( The Yellow Wallpaper)

So I take phosphates or phosphites—whichever it is, and tonics, and journeys, and air, and exercise, and am absolutely forbidden to “work” until I am well again. Personally, I disagree with their ideas. ( The Yellow Wallpaper)

It is so pleasant to be out in this great room and creep around as I please! ( The Yellow Wallpaper)

Theme of Gender in Othello

In his famous play Othello, Shakespeare juxtaposes female and male characters to expose the negative impact of gender stereotypes. Othello is a noble military general whose jealousy and anxiety get him to kill his wife and then himself.

The theme of Shakespeare’s play stems from men’s misunderstanding of women and women’s inability to protect themselves from society’s judgment. Othello kills his wife Desdemona because of the false rumors about her unfaithfulness. These rumors are spread by Iago—a misogynist jealous of Othello’s relationship with Desdemona. The Moor’s failure to trust his innocent and loving wife and identify his deceiver is what destroys him.

But what was the actual source of Othello’s anxieties? Society of that time believed that men with traditionally feminine characteristics such as empathy and trust were weak. Othello possessed these qualities, and it made him a victim of his own insecurity. He is an example of toxic masculinity—a man who was destroyed by the true nature of patriarchy.

Gender is only one of the play’s many fascinating topics. If you want to learn more about them, check out our article on themes in Othello .

Othello Quotes on Gender

Here are a few meaningful quotes from Othello for you to analyze and see what toxic masculinity is all about:

Reputation, reputation, reputation! Oh, I have lost my reputation! I have lost the immortal part of myself, and what remains is bestial. ( Othello, Act 2 Scene 3)

Men in rage strike those that wish them best. ( Othello, Act 2 Scene 3)

O curse of marriage, that we can call these delicate creatures ours And not their appetites! I had rather be a toad And live upon the vapor of a dungeon Than keep a corner in the thing I love For others’ uses. Yet ’tis the plague of great ones; Prerogatived are they less than the base. ’Tis destiny unshunnable, like death. ( Othello Act 3 Scene 3)

Gender Roles in To Kill a Mockingbird

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is a story about a wrongly accused black man and a lawyer confronting racial injustice. It also focused on the journey of a girl named Scout who challenges gender stereotypes and wants to be a tomboy.

Harper Lee explores the overcomplicated social hierarchy of the American South through differences in status. The rigid social divisions led to a man being falsely accused of rape because of the color of his skin.

In this setting, society dictates what’s suitable for each gender. As a result, people rarely cross the barrier between masculinity and femininity. Scout Finch rejects the feminine in her because she wants to grow up on her own terms. She sees femininity as a trap and believes that masculinity doesn’t have as many rules. Scout’s view of femininity changes when she learns that being a woman takes just as much courage as being a man.

Gender Quotes from To Kill a Mockingbird

If you were thinking about checking out To Kill a Mockingbird , here are the most famous quotes on gender that will inspire you to read it:

[Calpurnia] seemed glad to see me when I appeared in the kitchen, and by watching her I began to think there was some skill involved in being a girl. ( To Kill a Mockingbird, Chapter 12)

I felt the starched walls of a pink cotton penitentiary closing in on me, and for the second time in my life I thought of running away. ( To Kill a Mockingbird, Chapter 14)

I was not so sure, but Jem told me I was being a girl, that girls always imagined things, that’s why other people hated them so, and if I started behaving like one I could just go off and find some to play with. ( To Kill a Mockingbird, Chapter 4)

✍️ Gender Essay Topics & Questions

If you have a task to write a paper on a gender-related matter, this list of topics will be helpful for you. Check out the following list and find a topic that will interest you the most:

Role of educational institutions in teaching children appropriate gender behaviors .
Gender inequality in academic careers.
Is gender natural or acquired?
Women in the US military.
Gender parity in parenting .
Sex roles in contemporary western societies.
Feminism as a uniting power for all genders.
What does it mean to be transgender?
Men and depression.
Gender equality in Disney animation movies.
Social status of women and men in ancient Athens.
The roles of a mother and a father throughout history.
Should gender equality be taught in elementary schools?
The future of gender norms .
Women in today’s sports.
How are the concepts of masculinity and femininity defined in modern society?
Gender-neutral schools in Sweden.
Would humanity be more developed if gender stereotypes never existed?
Gender norms in dating.
Sexism in the perception of emotions.

Thank you for reading our guide! We hope you enjoyed looking at the importance of gender equality through the prism of literature. Feel free to share your thoughts and ideas with us in the comments section below.

How Is Gender Portrayed in Children’s Literature?

Many children’s books reflect stereotypes of feminine and masculine roles. Male characters are usually portrayed as domineering and active, while females are often represented as mild and humble. A classic example is the Cinderella fairy tale, which conveys the message that women depend on men to achieve a happy life.

What Is Shakespeare Saying About Gender in Macbeth?

Shakespeare portrays men and women as deriving power from different sources. Men in Macbeth gain control through political and military means, while women do it through manipulation. He portrays women as the force behind all the events that lead men to gain or lose control.

How Does Jane Austen Question Gender Roles in Persuasion?

Jane Austen suggests that fundamental differences between gender roles are due to the different social expectations and opportunities for men and women. Women have to remain passive, while men can earn money and have power and mobility.

How Is Gender Addressed in a Raisin in the Sun?

Lorraine Hansberry explores the controversial side of abortion, marriage, and limiting gender roles for women and men. Each of the Youngers takes a different attitude towards shifting gender roles but finds something that unites them all by the end of the play.

What Does the Bell Jar Say About Gender Expectations?

Sylvia Plath’s The Bell Jar presents a complex portrait of what it means to be a woman in 1950s America. Women were born to be housewives and mothers. They had to devote their energy to their husbands. They had no sexual freedom and no chance to pursue a professional career.

Feminist Criticism: Writing Commons
Feminist Perspectives on Sex and Gender: Stanford University
Gender Criticism: Master’s in Communications
Gender Bias and Stereotyping in Young Adult Literature: Brigham Young University
Revisiting Shakespeare and Gender: Virginia Tech
Women in Medieval Literature and Society: University of Delaware
Gender Represented in the Gothic Novel: IOSR Journal
Was there Ever a “Female Gothic”?: Nature.com
Black Women in Art and Literature: History.com
Feminist Gothic in “The Yellow Wallpaper”: Lone Star College
For Daws to Peck At: Gender Roles in Shakespeare’s Othello: Arizona State University
Gender Equality Themes: Council of Europe
Feminist Criticism and Gender Studies: William Shakespeare: Britannica
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Literary Theory and Criticism

Queer Theory

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on March 4, 2019 • ( 1 )

Since the late 1980s, theories of Gender and Sexuality have redefined how we think about culture and society. They have raised new questions about the construction of the gendered and sexualized subject and put forward radical new ideas about PERFORMANCE… Read More ›

Transgender Studies

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on December 18, 2018 • ( 0 )

Judith Butler’s scholarship and particularly her notion of performativity—which she theorizes throughout Gender Trouble (1990) and in subsequent work—has been foundational for the field of queer theory, but it also has had significant impact to the field of transgender studies…. Read More ›

Psychoanalysis and Gender

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on November 20, 2018 • ( 0 )

While many theories of subjectivity pay little attention to the productive role of gender in the formation of the subject, psychoanalysis, for all its limitations, has always been interested in gender as primary in the production of subjects. Freud articulated… Read More ›

Gay/Lesbian Studies

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on November 15, 2018 • ( 0 )

Gay/lesbian studies looks at the kinds of social structures and social constructs which define our ideas about sexuality as act and sexuality as identity. As an academic field, gay/lesbian studies looks at how notions of homosexuality have historically been defined… Read More ›

Queer Culture

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on August 15, 2018 • ( 0 )

The term queer has often puzzled outsiders.Why call yourself that? This too has its story. For a long time queerwas, of course, a derogatory term for male homosexuals. That began to change when it began to be widely used in… Read More ›

Postmodernism and Feminism

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on March 27, 2018 • ( 1 )

[Feminism] should persist in seeing itself as a component or offshoot of Enlightenment modernism, rather than as one more ‘exciting’ feature (or cluster of features) in a postmodern social landscape. (Sabina Lovibond, in T. Docherty, ed., Postmodemism: A Reader (1993).)… Read More ›

Key Theories of Judith Butler

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Judith Butler (b.1956) received a PhD in philosophy from Yale in 1984, with a thesis on Hegelian influences in France. She is the Maxine Elliot professor in the Departments of Rhetoric and Comparative Literature at the University of California at… Read More ›

Translation and Gender

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on January 13, 2018

The interest of cultural studies in translation inevitably took translation studies away from purely linguistic analysis and brought it into contact with other disciplines. Yet this ‘process of disciplinary hybridization’ (Simon 1996: ix) has not always been straightforward. Sherry Simon,… Read More ›

Gender Matters: The Women in Donne’s Poems

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For Donne as for us, gender matters, deeply, passionately, disturbingly. Donne is constantly writing about women and gender roles, both explicitly and indirectly through analogy and metaphor. Yet unlike his immediate predecessors and contemporaries, Sidney, Spenser, and Shakespeare, Donne rarely… Read More ›

Gender Stereotype

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on November 5, 2017 • ( 1 )

The concept of a stereotype was introduced into social science in 1922, when Walter Lippman used it to describe the ‘typical picture’ that comes to mind when thinking about a particular social group (Macrae et al. 1996). A stereotype can… Read More ›

Masculinity/ Masculinities

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on November 4, 2017 • ( 1 )

Masculinity is the set of social practices and cultural representations associated with being a man. The plural ‘masculinities’ is also used in recognition that ways of being a man and cultural representations of/about men vary, both historically and culturally, between… Read More ›

Heterosexism

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on November 2, 2017 • ( 2 )

The word ‘heterosexism’ derives directly from the feminist creation of the term ‘sexism’ during the late 1960s. The first usage of the term heterosexism is given as 1979 by the Oxford English Dictionary and it is defined as ‘prejudice and… Read More ›

Gender Order

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The gender order is a patterned system of ideological and material practices, performed by individuals in a society, through which power relations between women and men are made, and remade, as meaningful. It is through the gender order of a… Read More ›

Second Wave Feminism

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Second wave feminism is a term used to describe a new period of feminist collective political activism and militancy which emerged in the late 1960s. The concept of ‘waves’ of feminism was itself only applied in the late 1960s and… Read More ›

Identity Politics/ the Politics of Identity

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The utopian vision of ‘sisterhood’ – the collecting together of all women under the same political banner – was in part responsible for the burgeoning interest in feminism and the emergent Women’s Liberation Movement. It was inevitably going to come… Read More ›

Lesbian Continuum: A Brief Note

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The ‘lesbian continuum’ was a phrase coined by Adrienne Rich in her pathfinding essay Compulsory Heterosexuality and Lesbian Existence (1980, reprinted in Rich 1986). Rich’s notion of ‘compulsory heterosexuality’ here extends the definition of lesbian beyond that of sexual identity… Read More ›

Gender and Transgender Criticism

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In the introduction to their book Genders, David Glover and Cora Kaplan make the observation that: ‘gender is a much contested concept, as slippery as it is indispensable, but a site of unease rather than agreement’ (Glover and Kaplan, 2000, ix)…. Read More ›

Postcolonialism

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A critical analysis of the history, culture, literature and modes of discourse on the Third World countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean Islands and South America, postcolonialism concerns itself with the study of the colonization (which began as early as… Read More ›

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Studying Gender Roles in Literature and Life

The freshman literature survey course I teach offers readings rife with sexism and limiting gender norms. Romeo and Juliet , penned in the late 1500s, illustrates the way women were defined by their relationships with men, how they were treated as material objects to be admired and owned (the owners being husbands and fathers), and how physical beauty was the primary consideration in assessing a woman’s worth. Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird is another. Beyond the more obvious theme of racism, there is also a strong undercurrent of sexism as Scout struggles to navigate her desire to “act like a boy” in a society with strongly polarized and clearly defined roles for men and women. When her brother laments, “Scout, you act more like a girl every day,” he does not mean to flatter.

The key step to making these narratives pertinent to today’s students—and that may help them formulate clearer ideas about the meaning and value of justice—is to have students examine how much of the media they consume reinforces the same gender-normative ideas. It seems easy for my students, at first glance, to view these works as outdated. Closer examination reveals something else.

High school relationships have always had a big helping of physical attraction at their core, and teenagers are still trying to understand what matters beyond the initial hormonal rush. Now, from my vantage point, cellphones and social media have made physical attributes even more of a preoccupation than they were when I was in high school. Between sexting and posting provocative pictures to Instagram and Snapchat, students are more frequently exposed to sexualized images—particularly of women—and young girls are increasingly pressured to take part in that objectification.

As a teacher, I see the cultural messages that continue to tell girls they are objects to be appraised by boys and that how women look is a key determinant in deciding who they are. Photo-edited images on magazine covers and in ad campaigns add to the pressure for girls to alter their weight, hair color and body proportions in real life.

It’s worth noting that standards of appearance are becoming increasingly unrealistic for men as well; the male cosmetics industry is exploding, and the normative belief that men should be broad and muscular also stands out from most magazine racks. Not only that, but the messages that limit what women are expected to look like and do undermine the authenticity and humanity of men as well, pegging them as conquerors, owners and judges rather than as individuals capable of empathy, collaboration and tenderness.

So as we cover the curricula we are given to teach, let’s make sure we keep contextualizing those points in terms of present-day media literacy.

Have students examine the coverage of women and men occupying the same spaces. The recent Olympic commentary is a good place to start . Red carpet appearances in which men are asked about their craft and women are asked about their clothes is another. Teach them how these are vestiges of a time when women were literally considered property, objects to be owned. You can tie back to literature to make those connections.
Have students write journal entries about times they have seen the value of girls and boys being measured by their looks or their willingness to engage in sexual behavior. Discuss the results of their writing, and talk about possible solutions to the problems.
Have students spend a week examining the world around them. Tell them to look at interactions among peers, their social media accounts, movies, television shows, music videos and lyrics as a start. Ask them to write down all the examples they can find of behaviors that match up with the standards they see in literary works written hundreds of years ago. Again, examine the underlying biases.
As a follow-up to that week-long examination, ask them to make an attempt to change what they have seen in some way. It may be as simple as telling someone they don’t want to see the picture on their phone or not buying a certain artist’s new album. Those who want to go bigger can create a school-wide awareness campaign or write an editorial for a local paper or website. Have them write a short reflection on that process, emphasizing what they objected to and how they took a stand against it. Teaching Tolerance's “Do Something” student tasks offer a variety of approaches to having students take action that builds civic engagement and critical literacy skills.

We can use curricula to give students a better understanding of the past and present. More important, we can use them to help students think about how to solve today’s problems for a better, more just future.

Knoll is a writer and English teacher at a public school in New Jersey.

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113 Gender Roles Essay Topics & Examples

Looking for gender roles essay topics? This field is hot, controversial, and really worth exploring!

🔝 Top 10 Gender Topics
📝 Gender Essay: Writing Tips
🏆 Gender Essay Examples & Topic Ideas

✍️ Gender Argumentative Essay Topics

❓ research questions about gender roles.

In your gender role essay, you might want to focus on the issues of gender equality in the workplace. Another exciting option is to write about gender stereotypes in education. Finally, you can elaborate on how traditional gender roles are changing.

In this article, you’ll find a list of gender argumentative essay topics, ideas for papers on gender and society, as well as top gender roles essay examples.

🔝 Top 10 Gender Roles Topics

Gender stereotypes and the way they affect people
Fighting gender stereotypes and sexism
Gender equality in the workplace
Gender stereotypes in education
Gender schema theory
Is gender socially constructed?
Social learning theory and gender
Gender roles and sexual orientation
Body image and gender
Social gender construction in the media

📝 Gender Roles Essay: Writing Tips

Essays on gender roles present students’ understanding of the similarities, differences, and aspects of gender roles in society.

Writing gender roles essays helps learners to understand the significance of topics related to gender roles and the changes in societal norms. Students should be highly aware of the problems associated with traditional gender roles. For example, there are many periods in world history, in which people did not have equal rights.

Moreover, some aspects of gender roles may be associated with discrimination. To make an essay on this problem outstanding, you should discuss the problem in detail and present your points clearly. A useful tip is to develop a good structure for your paper.

Before starting to work on the paper, you should select the problem that is most interesting or relevant to you.

Gender roles essay topics and titles may include:

The history of gender roles and their shifts throughout the time
Male and female roles in society
Gender roles in literature and media
How a man and a woman is perceived in current society
The causes and outcomes of gender discrimination
The problem of ‘glass ceiling’
The problem of social stratification and its outcomes
The revolution in the concept of gender

After selecting the issue for discussion, you can start working on the essay’s structure. Here are some useful tips on how to structure your paper:

Select the topic you want to discuss (you can choose one from the list above). Remember to pay attention to the type of essay you should write. If it is an argumentative essay, reflect on what problem you would want to analyze from opposing perspectives.
Gender roles essay titles are important because they can help you to get the reader’s attention. Think of something simple but self-explanatory.
An introductory paragraph is necessary, as it will present the questions you want to discuss in the paper. Remember to state the thesis of your essay in this section.
Think of your gender roles essay prompts. Which aspects of the selected problem do you want to focus on? Dedicate a separate section for each of the problems.
Remember to include a refutation section if you are writing an argumentative essay. In this section, you should discuss an alternative perspective on the topic in 1-2 paragraphs. Do not forget to outline why your opinion is more credible than the alternative one.
Avoid making the paragraphs and sentences too long. You can stick to a 190 words maximum limit for one paragraph. At the same time, make sure that the paragraphs are longer than 65 words. Try to make all sections of the body paragraphs of similar length.
Check out examples online to see how you can structure your paper and organize the information. Pay attention to the number of paragraphs other students include.
Remember to include a gender roles essay conclusion. In this paragraph, you will discuss the most important claims of your paper.
Do not forget to add a reference page in which you will include the sources used in the paper. Ask your professor in advance about the types of literature you can utilize for the essay.

Do not forget that there are free samples on our website that can help you to get the best ideas for your essay!

🏆 Gender Roles Essay Examples & Topic Ideas

The Concepts of Gender Roles and Sexuality by John Money and Judith Butler These categories of feminists are united in the belief of existence of many children and little sex. This paper explains the concepts and ideologies relating to gender roles and sexuality.as advocated by John Money and […]
Gender Roles in Antigone Essay This will be seen through an analysis of the other characters in the play and the values of ancient Greeks. Indeed this central character appears to be at odds with the inclinations of the other […]
Gender Roles in the 19th Century Society: Charlotte Gilman’s The Yellow Wallpaper However, the narrator’s developing madness can also act as the symbolical depiction of the effects of the men’s dominance on women and the female suppression in the 19th-century society.”The Yellow Wallpaper” was first published in […]
Athena and Gender Roles in Greek Mythology According to Eicher and Roach-Higgins, the elements of her dress were important because they immediately communicated specific ideas about her character that was as contradictory as the physical gender of the birthing parent.”In appropriating the […]
Gender Roles in “Bridge to Terabithia” by Paterson The theme of gender roles is consistently present in the novel, starting with character origins and becoming the central concept as they mature to defy archetypal perceptions of feminine and masculine expectations in order to […]
Conflict of Gender Roles in Munro’s “Boys and Girls” Munro’s “Boys and Girls” is a story about a puzzled girl who struggles to find the balance between the battles of her inner female-housewife side, like her mother, and a boyish character who likes to […]
Gender Roles in “The Glass Menagerie” by Tennessee Williams In the play The Glass Menagerie, Tennessee Williams has written the story of the Wingfield family that lived in St Louis during the 1940s.
Gender Roles Set in Stone: Prehistoric and Ancient Work of Arts In the prehistoric and ancient works of art, the representation of women and men reveals a massive imbalance in gender equity that favors men over women.
Gender Roles Inversion: The Madonna Phenomenon At the same time partial narrowing of the gender gap in the context of economic participation did not lead to the equality of men and women in the field of their occupations.
Gender Roles and Stereotyping in Education Teachers should be trained to give clear and useful instruction to students on the issue of gender roles in modern society.
Nomadic Society’s Gender Roles and Warrior Culture On the one hand, it was clear that the 1100s and the 1200s included the period of male power. It was wrong to assume that all women were similar and treat them in the same […]
Discussing Gender Roles in the Interaction Perspective It is the purpose of this issue to discuss the concept of gender roles using the sociological perspective of symbolic interaction.
Women’s Gender Roles in American Literature The stories written by Constance Woolson Fenimore, Mary Wilkins Freeman, and Jaqueline Bishop highlight the harmful gender roles and discrimination that still remains a major topic for disputes and illustrate the fate of oppressed women.
Biology and Gender Roles in Society Thus, it may be more convenient for society to justify the imposition of certain gender roles on men and women using biology-related arguments, which, in reality, are more related to culture and social development.
Gender Roles in ‘Mr. Green’ by Robert Olen Butler Green Butler uses the character of the grandfather to develop the theme of gender roles within the culture. The character of the grandfather is extremely sound for the cultural beliefs the author conveyed through all […]
Changing Gender Roles Between Boys and Girls In the twenty-first Century, girls have greatly stepped up and assumed some of the roles that were considered to be boy’s while boys have done the same leading to an interchange of roles.
The Construction of Gender Roles However, it is wrong to consider women exposed to the domestic work powerless, as they have the opportunity to informally or implicitly influence men and the decisions they make.
Gender Roles and Body Image in Disney Movies In this research, attention will be paid to gender roles and body images of Disney princesses to understand the popularity of the franchise and its impact on child development.
Gender Roles in Society One might think that a child is born with the idea of how to behave in relation to gender while in the real sense; it is the cultivation of the society that moulds people to […]
“Beside Oneself” by Judith Butler: Gender Roles Following the views of the author, who states that choice in the formation of gender and sexuality is not transparent, and a key role is still played by others in the form of expectations and […]
Gender Roles in The Yellow Wallpaper & Trifles The two texts; the short story ‘The Yellow Wallpaper’ by Charlotte Perkins and the play ‘Trifles’ by Susan Glaspell strategically illustrate this claim since they both aim at attracting the reader’s attention to the poor […]
Gender Roles in Brady’s and Theroux’s Works In the satire “Being a Man” by Paul Theroux, the author demonstrates to readers the essence of how a particular manifestation of masculinity is extolled in American society.
Aspects of Gender Roles and Identity The breadth of her practice in transgender issues suggests that every choice Bowers makes is ethical, requiring her to be respectful and highly responsible.
Changing Gender Roles in Families Over Time The division of labor and traditional gender roles in the family usually consists of men doing the work while women take care of the children, other relatives, and housekeeping.
Gender Roles, Expectations, and Discrimination Despite Isaac being the calmest boy in the school, he had a crush on Grace, a beautiful girl in the school who was from a wealthy family.
Gender Roles in Social Constructionism The reality, in the view of sociologists, is a social attitude in connection with which a personality is formed that adapts to the requirements of the world.
Gender Roles and Stereotypes in Straightlaced Film One might conclude that gender neutrality and abstraction in offices are only a cover to maintain the basis of gender injustice.
Children’s Views of Gender Roles Today, both parents and teachers see the positive impact of the attempts to integrate anti-biased gender-related education on young children as they get more freedom to express themselves and grow up less aggressive.
Sociology of the Family: Gender Roles Thus, the societal predisposition and notion that women are lesser in the community should be abandoned, and greater emphasis should be placed on the critical functions they perform in the household. These assertions, equivocations, and […]
Femininity and Masculinity: Understanding Gender Roles The understanding of how gender roles are portrayed in the media and the general perception of the expected behavior for men and women communicated non-verbally in the society is the basis on which children build […]
Injustice Within Strict Gender Roles There is still no clear answer to how a person can find his or her destiny and place in the world, and understand the opportunities and prospects, considering the opinion of the dominant number of […]
Gender Roles and How People Perceive Them However, all of the survey participants indicated that their families would be inclined to differentiate between the toys for a child based on the latter’s sex and the corresponding perceived gender role.
Gender Roles: From Prehistoric Era to Modern Society Since each gender was assigned a particular role in the past due to the differences in the biological makeup between a man and a woman in the prehistoric era, the modern process of communication between […]
Gender Roles in TV Commercials and Values in the Society Each of them will watch, code, and analyze the TV commercials separately; at the end of the procedure, their results will be compared in order to ensure the inter-observer reliability of the chosen research method.
Gender Roles in Contemporary Society The conditions of life are tough and it is presumed that only men are able to carry out such hardships and limitations of a soldier life.
Culture and History: Gender Roles Over the Past 50 or So Years It is not that there were no women in the workforce; it was just that she had to choose one over the other, juggling the two was quite rare and unheard of.
Gender Roles and Sexuality in Media: Cosmopolitan & Maxim The woman portrayed in these sites is supposed to look ‘hot’ and sexy in order to be attractive to a man.
Gender Roles: Changes From the Late 1800’s to Today The definition of who is a male or a female depends on the types of gender roles one was exposed to during the early ages. In today’s society, we have a greater number of women […]
Social Element in Gender Roles I learned of the origins of gay and lesbian studies, as well that of the confining of such studies in earlier times to specific institutions.
Equality: The Use of TV to Develop Our Gender Roles In this sense, when it is the men who predominantly work outside of the home, they will usually see the home as a place of leisure and so use the TV as a source of […]
Gender Roles in Brady’s “Why I Want a Wife” and Sacks’ “Stay-at-Home Dads” Yet, there are some distinctions Judy Brady believes that women are often viewed as unpaid house servants who have to take care of husbands’ needs, whereas Glenn Sacks argues that gender roles begin to transform […]
Gender Roles and Family Systems in Hispanic Culture In the Hispanic culture, amarianismo’ and amachismo’ are the terms used to determine the various behavioral expectations among the family members.
Family Unit and Gender Roles in Society and Market The role of molding the infant into an adult belonged to the family in the ancient society. In the past, the father was expected to be the breadwinner of the family.
China’s Gender Roles in Mo Yan’s and Shen Fu’s Works Six Records of a Floating Life is a multi-faceted chronicle which helps to comprehend the difficulties and the features of Shen Fu’s life and the romance between him and his beloved Chen Yun.
Gender Roles in Couples and Sex Stereotypes Altogether, the last reconsiderations of the nature of relations promoted the appearance of numerous debates related to the role of partners and their right to be the leader.
Gender Roles in South Korean Laws and Society At the same time, all custody is traditionally granted to husbands and fathers in a case of a divorce” though the anxiety about the high divorce rate and the nasty endings of relationships is more […]
Gender Roles in Tango: Cultural Aspects However, one should not assume that the role of women in tango is inferior because they create the most aesthetic aspects of this dance.
Gender Roles in Toy Stores According to Fisher-Thompson et al, two of the major differentiating factors in toys for girls and boys are color and nature.
Women in Hip-Hop Music: A Provocative and Objectified Gender Roles It is one thing that men want women to be in music videos and play a particular role, but women are willing to participate in the videos.
Content Analysis of Gender Roles in Media In the critical analysis of the article, the point of disagreement is that of under-representation of women in the media. How do the media subordinate and relegate roles of women in society?
The Change of Gender Roles This similarity is one of the most important to focus on the structure of the narrative. In both plays, the main actions of the characters are not directly described by the authors.
Gender Equality: Male Dominance The simple reason is that gender inequality exists in affluent societies wherein women are free to do what they want, have access to education, and have the capacity to create wealth.
Gender roles in the Wind in the Willows For instance, in the case where both the mole and the rat make comments to the toad that are full of women critics.
“The Odd Women” and “Women in Love”: Evolving Views of Gender Roles An effort is also made to track the changes of the roles of women in the social fabric in the Victorian era by considering The Odd Women by George Gissing written in 1893.
Gender Roles: Constructing Gender Identity In the course of the twentieth century and at the threshold of the twenty-first century, the images and roles of gender have constantly been changing.
Analysis of the Peculiarities of Gender Roles Within Education, Families and Student Communities Peculiarities of gender aspect within the education system and labour market Attitude for marriage of men and women as one of the major aspects within the analysis of gender roles Family relations as a significant […]
Ideology of Gender Roles In the world of literature, ideology has played a vital role in depicting the condition of the society. In this scenario, Kingston reveals that the men out-live their roles in the society, and they are […]
Concepts of Gender Roles As a result of these, the war on gender inequality and sexism has failed, because of the failure of these agents of change to promote gender equality and eliminate discriminative notions held by the society.
Cohabitation and Division of Gender Roles in a Couple Cohabitation is perceived in the society as the form of relationships which is an effective alternative to the traditional marriage because of focusing on the principles of flexibility, freedom, and equality, but few couples can […]
Gender Roles in the United States Over the Last Century The men’s perception towards this idea was negative, and this consequently resulted to a conflict with the men claiming that the roles of the women were in the kitchen.
Fashions, gender roles and social views of the 1950s and 1960s Fashion was highly valued and this can be seen in the way the clothes worn by the wives of the presidential candidates in America hit the headlines. In the 1950s, the role of housekeeping and […]
Gender Roles by Margaret Mead Once the a rift defining men and women develops this way, it goes further and defines the positions, which men and women occupy in the society, basing on these physical and biological differences, which form […]
Cheating, Gender Roles, and the Nineteenth-Century Croquet Craze The author’s main thesis is, “Yet was this, in fact, how the game was played on the croquet lawns of the nineteenth century?” Whereas authors of croquet manuals and magazines emphasize so much on the […]
Gender Roles in Cartoons Though the males are portrayed to be logical, but it is shown that the females are more successful because of simple blunders or miscalculations which males fail to understand, females are able to beat males […]
The Industrial Revolution Impact on the Gender Roles The population growth combined with the increased productivity of small parts of the country and the migration of the now landless people in search of work opportunities led to the phenomena of urbanization.
How Does Aristophanes Represent Gender Roles in Lysistrata?
Are Gender Roles and Relationships More Equal in Modern Family Life?
How Do Children Develop Gender Roles?
Does Men’s Fashion Reflect Changes in Male Gender Roles?
How Did Colonialism Resonate With Gender Roles and Oppression?
Are Gender Roles Damaging Society?
How Did Revolutions Affect Gender Roles?
Are Gender Roles Defined by Society or by Genetics?
How Have Family Structure and Gender Roles Changed?
Are Gender Roles Fluid When Dealing With Death and Tragedy?
How Do Gender Roles Affect Communication?
Are Gender Roles Natural?
How Do Gender Roles Affect Immigrants?
Are Gender Stereotyped Roles Correct?
How Do Gender Roles Affect the Physical and Emotional Health?
Have Gender Roles Played a Big Part in the History?
How Do Gender Roles and Extroversion Effects How Much People Talk?
What Are Gender Roles? How Are They Defined?
How Are Gender Roles Predetermined by the Environment?
What Drives the Gender Wage Gap?
How Has Gender Roles Changed Over the Last Centuries?
What Factors Influence Gender Roles?
How Have Gender Roles in Japanese Theatre Influenced and Affected Societal View on Homosexuality and Masculinity?
What Society Norms for Gender Roles Should Be Conceived?
How Have Traditional Gender Roles Been Stressful?
What Was Distinctive About Gender Roles in the Nineteenth Century?
How Has Hegemonic Masculinity Set Ideas of Gender Roles?
How Do Media and Politics Influence Gender Roles?
Where Does the Truth on Gender Roles Lie in Nahua and Mayan Civilizations?
How Radical Are the Changes to the Gender Roles in Carter’s “The Company of Wolves”?
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Gender Institute

Call for Papers - Symposium: The Unliterary Eighteenth Century: Gender and Marginal Texts

Friday 11 April 2025

Australian national university, canberra.

In The Ephemeral Eighteenth Century (2020), Gillian Russell demonstrates the value of attending to the proximately, rather than definitively, literary as genres of their own. This panel invites consideration of eighteenth-century texts that, despite their popularity and cultural centrality in their own time, have been marginalised because of their resistance to contemporary categories of literary genre, and, whatever else they might be called, are rarely if ever considered to be literary. Such texts might include: commonplace books; tourist guidebooks; theatre bills and broadsides; visiting cards and advertising material; catalogues; newspaper and occasional poetry. Their marginalisation has implications not only for our understanding of literary history but our knowledge of the history of gender and sexuality. Not only did women and anonymous writers work within “unliterary” forms, but these ephemeral and sometimes pornographic texts challenge contemporary understandings of bodies and gender. How might we better understand and appreciate the impact of these texts on eighteenth-century culture? How do they invite, and how might they resist methods of close reading? What does eighteenth-century literary studies do with the disjunction between contemporary definitions of our discipline, based around “literature” as a category, and what “literature” was understood as being in the eighteenth century? This one-day symposium hosted by the Gender Institute at the Australian National University invites proposals for 20 minute papers that offer, via the “unliterary”, new methods in literary studies, and new forms of interdisciplinary engagement with history and cultural studies.

Keynotes : Professor Kathleen Lubey, St. John's University; Professor Gillian Russell, The University of York.

Please submit a proposal of 250 words plus a brief bio before 16 December to the symposium organisers: Amelia Dale ( [email protected] ); Nicola Parsons ( [email protected] ) and Claire Knowles ( [email protected] ).

The symposium will be preceded on Thursday 10 April by an HDR and ECR masterclass, “Reading in Parts,” led by Prof Kathleen Lubey. The masterclass will explore the value of reading texts in parts (as opposed to wholes) as a way of approaching the archive of sexuality.

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GI Symposium April_CFP.pdf ( PDF , 105.12 KB )

Updated: 24 October 2024 / Responsible Officer: Convenor, Gender Institute / Page Contact: Gender Institute

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Call for Papers
Friday 11 April 2025 Australian National University, Canberra In The Ephemeral Eighteenth Century (2020), Gillian Russell demonstrates the value of attending to the proximately, rather than definitively, literary as genres of their own. This panel invites consideration of eighteenth-century texts that, despite their popularity and cultural centrality in their own time, have been marginalised ...

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Call for Papers - Symposium: The Unliterary Eighteenth Century: Gender and Marginal Texts

Friday 11 April 2025