Feminist Literary And Cultural Theory By Donald Hall

1338 Words6 Pages
Feminism is an occurring problem in today’s society. Therefore, society still judges and give stereotypical characteristics and behaviors to woman. According to the text, “Literary and Cultural Theory” by Donald Hall, the purpose of feminism is “to reveal, analyze, and redress the situations in which women’s equality with men is denied” (200). For example, feminist analysis is being able to recognize the different degrees of social power that are given to and used by men and women (Halls 199). While cultural feminism is one of the many types of feminism, it is an important issue in society. It mainly focuses on the stereotypical roles and characteristics that are given to women. The Awakening by Kate Chopin is an excellent example of cultural feminism. Kate Chopin was born in 1850 when society was filled with stereotypes and patriarchy. Therefore, her novels are believed to contribute to the movements of feminism. During the late 1800s the protagonist, Edna Pontellier, has a difficult patriarchal life filled with oppression within her entire life. The novel is filled with stereotypes that Edna rebels. “A Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin, unlike her novel, The Awakening, the short story talks about an ill woman named Mrs. Mallard, who soon is told that her husband has been in a terrible train accident. At first she was sad, but then realizes she is free of the oppression her husband gave her. This short story is a great example on how women felt through oppression that
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