Mary Astell, Drake, Judith, active 1696-1707

An essay in defence of the female sex (eBook, ePUB)

In which are inserted the characters of a pedant, a squire, a beau, a vertuoso, a poetaster, a city-critick, &c. in a letter to a lady

• Format: ePub

Produktbeschreibung

In the anthology 'An Essay in Defence of the Female Sex', readers are presented with a groundbreaking collection of works that explore themes of gender, intellect, and societal roles from a distinctly early modern feminist perspective. This compilation not only reflects the diversification of literary styles rooted in the period's burgeoning discourse on women's rights and abilities but also stands as a significant beacon in the historical literary context. The anthology includes standout pieces that challenge contemporary gender norms and advocate for the intellectual and moral equality of women, representing a pivotal moment in the evolution of feminist literature. The backgrounds of the contributing authors, Mary Astell and Judith Drake, provide a fascinating insight into the early development of feminist thought. Active in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, their writings align with the precursors of feminist movements, offering a critical examination of the cultural and intellectual confines placed upon women of their time. This collection serves as a testament to their collective contributions, merging astute observations with eloquent prose to champion the cause of women's rights and intellectual freedom. 'Reading 'An Essay in Defence of the Female Sex' offers a unique opportunity to engage with seminal feminist texts that have shaped the discourse around gender and intellect. This anthology not only educates its audience on the historical underpinnings of feminist thought but also invites readers to explore a rich tapestry of perspectives and styles. It stands as a crucial volume for those wishing to understand the intricate dialogue between early modern feminist literature and contemporary discussions on gender equality, making it an indispensable inclusion in any scholarly collection on feminist studies.

Produktdetails

• Verlag: Good Press
• Seitenzahl: 253
• Erscheinungstermin: 3. Dezember 2019
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 4057664573186
• Artikelnr.: 58563071

Autorenporträt

Mary Astell (1666-1731) was a pioneering English feminist writer and rhetorician, acclaimed for her advocacy of education for women and her contributions to philosophical thought. Born in Newcastle upon Tyne, Astell was a trailblazer in arguing for the intellectual and moral potential of women at a time when such ideas were revolutionary. Her seminal work, 'A Serious Proposal to the Ladies, for the Advancement of Their True and Greatest Interest' (1694), laid the groundwork for feminist literature by proposing an all-female college. However, it is her 'An Essay in Defence of the Female Sex' (1696), where Astell engages in a spirited defence of women's capacities, mocking prevailing gender stereotypes and calling for educational reform. Astell's work not only critiqued the social norms of her time but also showcased her skillful use of satire and rhetoric. Her literary style intertwines logical argumentation with a moral imperative, aiming to reform both individual character and societal institutions. While Astell's proposals did not materialize in her lifetime, her writings have had a lasting impact on feminist thought, and she has been posthumously recognized as one of the early architects of feminist philosophy (Hill, 2002; Sowaal and Detlefsen, 2016).