The Societal Influence of Feminist Literature

Girl. Maiden. Lady. Woman. Mother. Maga. Crone.

Women represent roughly half of the world’s population. Yet, we continually have to fight, tooth and nail, to challenge the patriarchal views and inequalities that we as women have faced for centuries.

Feminist literacy is a tool many do not consider in our battle. It is about so much more than a woman in literature: it aims to question, push boundaries, and alter how women are portrayed in society. It also works to provide a woman with an opportunity to look at her own life, her aspirations, and the challenges she faces. It ensures that women’s perspectives are heard and respected.

Four notable female authors, historical and contemporary, have struck me with their feminist literature. They have portrayed what feminist literature has done and continues to do for society.

19^th Century—Jane Austen (Pride and Prejudice, 1813)

In a time dominated by rigid gender roles and limited choices for women, Austen presented Elizabeth Bennet, as a woman who defied societal expectations, asserted her individuality, demanded self-respect, and remained committed to a woman’s right to marry for love rather than wealth. Her novel was a catalyst for feminist thought and remains, to this day, a source of inspiration for women who are empowered to assert their individualism and to achieve their own goals.

First-Wave Feminism—Virginia Woolf (A Room of One’s Own, 1929)

Woolf’s extended essay, renowned as a landmark feminist text, addresses the literary field and the societal barriers that women face within it. She advocates for women’s rights and freedoms while critiquing the historical limitations that have been placed on women by using the example of Judith Shakespeare, a girl who was prevented from achieving her true potential by societal norms. The concept of a “room of one’s own,” is a metaphor often used for women’s lives, specifically regarding education, financial independence, and their representation within the arts. Even now, women use Woolf as an inspiration to challenge the constraints of a woman’s space within the digital age.

Second-Wave Feminism—Simone De Beauvoir (The Second Sex, 1949)

Beauvoir’s text laid the foundations for future feminist movements, by inspiring new generations to question and challenge gender disparity. She argues that women are viewed as second-class citizens, as “other,” in a male-dominated society, and emphasizes the oppressive nature of societal structures. She urges women to create their own identities and break away from the constraints placed upon them. Even today, as a result of her work, women are redefining what it means to be fulfilled, successful, and continue to challenge societal norms.

Contemporary—Margaret Atwood (The Handmaid’s Tale, 1985)

Atwood’s novel has had an immense impact on feminist society through its illustration of oppressive patriarchal dynamics and the struggles for women’s rights. It exposes the negative effects of restricting women’s autonomy and reproductive rights and criticizes the dehumanization of women in totalitarian societies. Her novel has become a symbol of resistance now more than ever. Many movements today are inspired by her work and fight against misogyny, particularly in terms of  women’s rights and gender politics.

These four authors have inspired modern-day movements such as #MeToo, reproductive rights activism, educational reforms, and society’s understanding of a woman’s struggles. Gender-based violence, threats to reproductive rights, period poverty, inadequate maternal healthcare, political representation, and human trafficking are just a few of the innumerable problems and injustices that women have faced and are still fighting today. It is imperative that we use the voices not only of these authors, but every woman’s, past and present, to claim and fortify our space within society.

We must continue to speak. We must yell and shout. We must make our voices heard, and feminist literature should be one of our largest microphones.

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Sigma Tau Delta

Sigma Tau Delta, International English Honor Society, was founded in 1924 at Dakota Wesleyan University. The Society strives to

• Confer distinction for high achievement in English language and literature in undergraduate, graduate, and professional studies;
• Provide, through its local chapters, cultural stimulation on college campuses and promote interest in literature and the English language in surrounding communities;
• Foster all aspects of the discipline of English, including literature, language, and writing;
• Promote exemplary character and good fellowship among its members;
• Exhibit high standards of academic excellence; and
• Serve society by fostering literacy.

With over 900 active chapters located in the United States and abroad, there are more than 1,000 Faculty Advisors, and approximately 9,000 members inducted annually.

Sigma Tau Delta also recognizes the accomplishments of professional writers who have contributed to the fields of language and literature.