From Menstruation to the Menopause: The Female Fertility Cycle in Contemporary Women's Writing in French

This book explores the representation of the female fertility cycle in contemporary Algerian,Mauritian, and French womens writing, focusing on menstruation, childbirth, and the menopause. It argues that contemporary womens writing has continued the challenge against normative perceptions of the body launched by second-wave feminists, taking a more nuanced and contextual approach.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 02 April 2024
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

This captivating book delves into the rich tapestry of representations of the female fertility cycle in contemporary Algerian, Mauritian, and French women's writing. It takes a comprehensive approach, encompassing menstruation, childbirth, and the menopause, while also exploring the profound experiences of miscarriage and abortion. By drawing upon the pioneering work of second-wave feminists, this study provides a framework for analyzing contemporary women's writing.

Second-wave feminist texts emerged as a groundbreaking force, shattering the silence surrounding crucial aspects of female experience that had previously been overlooked or deemed taboo. These works challenged the dominant narratives and offered a fresh perspective on women's lives. However, it is important to note that their approach has been criticized for applying universal theories to all women, regardless of their ethnicity, socio-economic status, or sexuality.

In response to this criticism, this book argues that contemporary women's writing has carried forward the critical challenge against normative perceptions of the body initiated by the second-wave feminists. It does so by adopting a more nuanced, contextual, and intersectional approach to corporeal experience. This approach recognizes the diverse experiences of women across different cultures and social contexts.

The cross-cultural and interdisciplinary nature of this book is enriched by the insights of critics of the second-wave feminist movement, as well as sociological studies that examine how women's bodily experiences are shaped by the socio-cultural context. By integrating these perspectives, the book offers a comprehensive exploration of the complexities and nuances of the female fertility cycle in contemporary women's writing.

Through its meticulous analysis, this book sheds light on the ways in which women writers have challenged traditional notions of femininity, body image, and reproductive rights. It provides a valuable contribution to the field of feminist studies, offering a deeper understanding of the ways in which women's experiences are shaped by cultural, social, and historical factors.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the representation of the female fertility cycle in contemporary women's writing. It offers a rich and nuanced perspective on a topic that has been largely overlooked in academic discourse. By drawing upon the legacy of second-wave feminism and adopting a cross-cultural and interdisciplinary approach, this book provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of women's experiences and the ongoing struggle for gender equality.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802075328