Essay Strategies on Patriarchy and Feminism

A central claim of an essay that presents the argument's main point and direction. It guides the reader through the analysis and interpretation of the chosen topic.

A critical examination of literary texts or theories, considering their strengths, weaknesses, and underlying assumptions.

The act of supporting a claim or argument with evidence, examples, and reasoning.

An analytical method that compares and contrasts two different subjects, highlighting their similarities and differences.

A framework that organizes the essay's content by dividing it into distinct sections.

A type of feminist character who embodies independent thought and rejects traditional societal expectations, often pursuing education and professional careers.

A critical examination of how women's roles are portrayed and defined in literature and society, highlighting issues of power, agency, and gendered expectations.

The act of demonstrating how a literary work reflects or critiques social, historical, or cultural context. This involves exploring how authors use their work to comment on specific ideas, values, or events of their time.

A term used to describe the legal and social institution of marriage as a form of prostitution, where women are often expected to serve their husbands' needs, leading to their exploitation and control.

When a female character in a novel displays a defiance of traditional expectations of femininity, specifically in terms of her behavior or relationships with men.

The concept of a woman being 'sold' into marriage, referring to the commercial aspect of the social institution, highlighting the economic and often transactional nature of marriage in Victorian society.

The contrast between the portrayal of the socially respectable woman in a marriage and the stereotype of the prostitute in the Victorian period. This contrast is commonly explored in literature, often through the contrasting characters like a married woman and a prostitute.

Analyzing the symbolic actions and language used by authors to shed light on the social constraints faced by women in their portrayal of femininity.

A literary figure who embraces modern, progressive views on female autonomy and rights. She often challenges the traditional limitations imposed on women, particularly with regards to marriage and societal expectations.

Exploring how the physical presence and actions of characters can reflect their defiance or conformity to social norms. This can include aspects like clothing, demeanour, or gestures associated with expectations of femininity.

Analyzing the influence of social and economic pressures on women in Victorian society. This can involve examining how ideas such as financial dependence can impact a woman's agency and choices.

The study of the themes of femininity, marriage, and prostitution in Victorian literature. This focuses on the intersection of these themes, examining how authors portray the social constructs of gender, sexuality, and power.

The lasting impact of the portrayal of femininity and sexuality in Victorian literature, exploring how these representations continue to resonate in contemporary conversations about gender and sexuality.