Feminist-Approach

Classroom Introduction

• Greeting: Good Morning Class!

• Teacher: Ma'am Nhoela

LEAD Participation Guidelines

• Keywords: L E A D

  • Lift your hand to speak or leave your seat.

  • Engage actively when the teacher is talking.

  • Actively participate in the discussion.

  • Do your best at all times.

Class Review

• Activity:

  • Minute to Paste It:

    • Class will be divided into three groups.

    • Each group will receive pre-cut societal roles.

    • Groups will decide whether each societal role is typically associated with men or women and paste it on the board.

Introduction to Feminist Literary Criticism

• Question for Discussion: What do you think "Feminist Literary Criticism" means?

Definition

• Feminist Literary Criticism:

  • A form of literary analysis focusing on gender roles, power structures, and the representation of women in literature.

Objectives

• Aims to uncover how literature reflects or challenges societal norms relating to women's oppression (social, political, economic, psychological).

Analyzing Women's Portrayal in Literary Works

• Key Questions:

• How are women portrayed in literary works?

Principles of Feminist Literary Criticism

• Examining Literature:

  • From a male-dominated perspective to highlight gender stereotypes.

• Re-examination of Canonical Works:

  • Look for alternative voices and focus on women’s (or gender) roles.

• Gender Social Constructs:

  • Analyze how gender is socially constructed for both sexes.

• Critique of Patriarchy:

  • Address how patriarchy shapes societal norms for both genders.

Perspectives on Literature

• Discussion Prompt:

• How might a book or story change perceptions of women's roles?

Steps in Writing a Feminist Criticism

Step 1: Reading and Understanding the Text

• Critical Questions:

  • Why did the author write this?

  • How are female characters portrayed?

  • What power dynamics exist between genders?

  • How does the text reflect gender roles?

Step 2: Formulating a Thesis Statement

• Develop a clear and arguable thesis focusing on character portrayal, theme, structure, imagery, or symbolism.

Step 3: Conducting Research

• Use credible sources to support analysis, including historical context and feminist theories.

Step 4: Supporting Arguments with Evidence

• Strengthen analysis with direct quotes and paraphrases instead of summarizing the plot.

Step 5: Editing and Refining the Critique

• Final critique should be well-organized, with a strong introduction, flow of ideas, textual support, and a solid conclusion.

Practice Activity

Who Decides?

• Activity Mechanics:

  • Class divided into three groups for scenario-based decision making.

  • Groups will perform scenarios that reflect gender roles.

  • Discuss influences on characters' decisions and challenges faced.

Scene Examples

Scene 1: Maria's Marriage

• Plot: Arranged marriage vs. personal dreams of education and independence.

Scene 2: Anna's Career

• Plot: Balancing career aspirations against traditional roles.

Scene 3: Elisa's Engagement

• Plot: Breaking off engagement against family expectations.

True or False Statements

1. Reading involves analyzing female character portrayals and power dynamics.

2. A thesis should focus on broad interpretations.

3. Research is essential for feminist literary criticism.

4. Direct quotations are unnecessary for analysis.

5. Editing ensures clarity and strong presentation.

Fair or Unfair? Group Activity

• Mechanics:

  • Class divided into "Fair" and "Unfair" groups to discuss gender roles.

Assignment Directions

• Select a literary work to analyze:

  • Choices:

    • Jane Eyre, The Yellow Wallpaper, Pride and Prejudice, A Doll’s House.

  • Respond to questions about character portrayals and societal expectations.

Crossword Puzzle Activity

• Directions: Complete the crossword with feminist literary criticism terms.

• Words Include: Oppression, Gender Roles, Feminism, Empowerment, Feminist Criticism, Voice, Patriarchy.

Conclusion

• Closing Note: Thank you for listening!