feminism and gender theory

Feminism

The advocacy of women’s rights on the basis of the equality of the sexes; politically, socially, economically.

Feminist Criticism

Examines representations of women in literature and film, oftentimes in how they have been portrayed by male writers and male directors. Closely examines a text to determine what is said about: Oppression, Personal Freedom, Social Justice, Stereotyping.

Wave 1 Feminism

Mid 1800’s – 1900’s. Fight for social and political equality. Struggle for women’s suffrage.

Wave 2 Feminism

Liberation movement of 1960’s – 1970’s. Characterized by struggles for: Equal pay, Equal rights at work, Better representation in public bodies.

Wave 3 Feminism

1990’s – 2000’s. Less emphasis on battles for equality. More emphasis on the positive nature of ambiguity and difference.

Wave 4 Feminism

Present day, MeToo Movement, Marriage Equality.

Gender Theory

Seeks to break down the labels/binaries; less about identifying, more about less emphasis on biological sex.

Gender

A term referring to the identities as a “man” and “woman” and the range of characteristics commonly associated with masculinity and femininity.

Patriarchy/Patriarchal

Social organization favoring males on every level; rule by men.

Matriarchy/Matriarchal

Social organization favoring females on every level; rule by female.

Marginalize

To assign a lesser importance or an “absent presence,” to objectify or place “at the margins” those not considered important to a society, culture, or text.

Misogyny

Dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against women.

Misandry

Dislike of, contempt for, or ingrained prejudice against men.

Androcentrism

Conscious or subconscious practice of placing the male perspective in the center of a broader worldview.