Synopses & Reviews
The rise of feminism is undeniably one of the major events in the development of literary criticism this century. Feminist approaches have pushed forward both the theory of literary criticism and the understanding of individual works of literature. K. K. Ruthven's lucid introduction to the subject offers a broad survey, looking at the impact of Marxism, structuralism, and post-structuralism on feminist critical practice; the argument that literary language has been shaped by masculine bias; and feminist claims for distinctive styles and traditions of women's writing. As a lively contribution written by a man to a highly controversial topic dominated by women, K. K. Ruthven's study is original and even provocative, but above all serves as a valuably clear and sympathetic guide to the complexities of an important issue in modern literary studies.
Review
' ... fascinating reading for anyone who needs convincing of the need for feminist literary studies.' Year's Work in English Studies
Review
' ... a stimulating book ... wide-ranging in the light of its modest claim to be an introduction to its subject.' The Times Higher Education Supplement
Synopsis
K. K. Ruthven looks at the impact of Marxism, structuralism, and post-structuralism on feminist critical practice; the argument that literary language has been shaped by masculine bias; and feminist claims for distinctive styles and traditions of womenâs writing. An original and provocative study that serves as a valuably clear and sympathetic guide to the complexities of an important issue.
Synopsis
An in depth survey of the impact of Marxism, structuralism, and post structuralism on feminist criticism, as well as the effects of the rise of twentieth century feminism on the theory of literary criticism.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 144-147) and index.
Table of Contents
Preface; 1. The gendering of critical discourse; 2. Constructing feminist theories of criticism; 3. Dismantling androcentric assumptions; 4. Gynocritics; Notes; Select bibliography; Index.