Mary Astell, Judith Drake

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 'An Essay in Defence of the Female Sex,' we are presented with a groundbreaking collection that not only traverses a wide array of literary styles but also addresses a singularly significant theme: the intellectual and social capacities of women, argued with wit, erudition, and unprecedented fervor. This anthology, primarily consisting of contributions by Mary Astell and Judith Drake, stands out as an early clarion call for female empowerment and education. The diversity in argumentation and stylistic approach enriches the overarching plea for recognition of women's intellectual contributions, making it a seminal work in the annals of feminist literature. The contributing authors, Astell and Drake, bring forth a compelling array of historical and cultural perspectives, deeply rooted in the early feminist movements of the 17th and 18th centuries. Their works reflect a nuanced understanding of the societal constraints on women and propose thoughtful, often provocative, solutions. While Astell is known for her advocacy for educational and social reforms for women, Drake's contributions underscore the intellectual vigor of women challenging patriarchal norms. Together, their writings offer a vibrant tapestry of feminist thought that was remarkably ahead of its time. This anthology is an indispensable read for anyone keen on exploring the origins and progressions of feminist thought. It offers a unique opportunity to engage with the early arguments that shaped the discourse around women's rights and education. For scholars, students, and general readers alike, 'An Essay in Defence of the Female Sex' promises not just educational value, but a chance to witness the evolution of feminist rhetoric through the ages. Its remarkable diversity in perspectives serves as a testament to the rich intellectual tradition that women have always been a part of, inviting readers to delve into the dialogues that continue to inspire and challenge us today.

---

Dieser Download kann aus rechtlichen Gründen nur mit Rechnungsadresse in A, B, BG, CY, CZ, D, DK, EW, E, FIN, F, GR, H, IRL, I, LT, L, LR, M, NL, PL, P, R, S, SLO, SK ausgeliefert werden.

Produktdetails

• Verlag: DigiCat
• Seitenzahl: 72
• Erscheinungstermin: 15. August 2022
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 8596547174158
• Artikelnr.: 65262267

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).