Fatefully, Faithfully Feminist: A Critical History of Women, Patriarchy and Mexican National Discourse

Carlos Monsivais's Fatefully, Faithfully Feminist is a critical anthology of writings by a Mexican cultural critic that analyzes the role of women in a patriarchal culture from pre-Colombian times to the present. It offers extensive annotation and cultural background to understand the cogent arguments that Monsivais makes, which are relevant in today's political economy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 29 February 2024
Publisher: Vanderbilt University Press

This comprehensive anthology of writings by Carlos Monsivais stands as a vital collection of texts by an exceptional Mexican cultural critic, whose work remains relatively under-translated. The book, aptly titled Fatefully, Faithfully Feminist, skillfully situates the urgent concerns of social movements as they unfolded in real-time. Spanning from 1973 to 2008, the essays delve into the profound impact of women within a patriarchal culture, spanning from pre-Colombian times to the present. This critical edition provides extensive annotation and cultural context to enhance our understanding of Monsivais's cogent, yet particularly Mexican, arguments, many of which remain highly relevant in today's political economy, both in the United States and globally.

The book's introduction provides a valuable overview, tracing the development of Monsivais's thought and highlighting the significance of his contributions to cultural criticism. It contextualizes his work within the broader framework of Mexican intellectual history and emphasizes the relevance of his ideas to contemporary discussions.

The subsequent chapters delve into a range of topics, including the historical construction of gender roles, the role of women in political movements, and the challenges faced by feminist activists in Mexico. Monsivais's analysis is insightful and nuanced, drawing on a wealth of cultural and historical sources to shed light on the complex dynamics of power and gender.

One of the book's notable strengths is its ability to bridge the gap between theory and practice. Monsivais seamlessly weaves together academic analysis with personal anecdotes and experiences, providing a rich and empathetic perspective on the challenges faced by women in Mexico. His writing is accessible and engaging, making it accessible to a wide audience, including students, scholars, and activists alike.

Throughout the anthology, Monsivais challenges traditional narratives and stereotypes, offering a more nuanced and complex understanding of the role of women in Mexican society. He explores the historical and cultural factors that have shaped gender roles and examines the ways in which women have resisted and subverted these norms. He also highlights the contributions of feminist activists and organizations in promoting gender equality and social justice in Mexico.

One of the book's most compelling chapters explores the intersection of gender, class, and race in Mexican society. Monsivais argues that these factors are interwoven and mutually reinforcing, creating a complex web of oppression and marginalization for women. He explores the ways in which women have been marginalized by economic inequality, social exclusion, and racial discrimination, and offers insights into the strategies employed by feminist activists to address these issues.

Another notable aspect of the book is its attention to the role of media and popular culture in shaping perceptions of women and gender roles. Monsivais analyzes the representation of women in film, television, and literature, and explores the ways in which these media outlets perpetuate harmful stereotypes and reinforce gender inequality. He also offers critical commentary on the ways in which feminist activists have used media and popular culture to challenge these narratives and promote positive change.

Fatefully, Faithfully Feminist is a groundbreaking work that contributes significantly to our understanding of gender, culture, and social movements in Mexico. It is a testament to Carlos Monsivais's intellectual rigor, empathy, and commitment to promoting gender equality and social justice. This critical edition provides a valuable resource for students, scholars, and activists interested in understanding the complexities of Mexican society and the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

In conclusion, Fatefully, Faithfully Feminist is a must-read for anyone interested in gender, culture, and social movements in Mexico. It is a comprehensive and insightful anthology that offers a rich and nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by women in a patriarchal culture. Monsivais's writing is accessible, engaging, and thought-provoking, making it an invaluable resource for students, scholars, and activists alike. This critical edition provides a valuable resource for students, scholars, and activists interested in understanding the complexities of Mexican society and the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 228 x 151 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780826506337