Five for Freedom: A Study of Feminism in Fiction

Five for Freedom is a 1972 book that examines five European fictional heroines as anticipatory of contemporary feminism. It argues that the role of women in fiction has been underestimated and that the claims to originality of recent female liberationists have been overestimated. The book is a far-ranging, lightly-handled study with insights into both the mode of fiction and the role of some of its leading heroines. It will be useful for scholars and researchers of literature, Womens studies, and Gender studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 230 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Five for Freedom, originally published in 1972, is a captivating exploration of five European fictional heroines that serve as forerunners of contemporary feminism. The author, Professor Wagner, firmly asserts that the role of women in the development of fiction has been underestimated, while the claims of originality by many recent female liberationists have been equally exaggerated. This comprehensive and somewhat loosely structured book offers valuable insights into the evolution of fiction as it responded to the demands of women and the significance of some of its prominent heroines. Professor Wagner's studies extend beyond the "five for freedom" to include other notable female characters such as Balzac's Cousine Bette, Catherine Earnshaw of Wuthering Heights, Anna Karenina, and Eca de Queiroz's Portuguese Bovary in Cousin Bazilio.

This brilliant little study is both timely and accessible, while also demonstrating a deep scholarly knowledge. It will be of great interest to scholars and researchers in the fields of literature, Women's Studies, and Gender Studies.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032616513