Maternal Performance: Feminist Relations

Maternal Performance: Feminist Relations explores the relationship between performance, feminism, maternal studies, and ethics, highlighting the ethical dimensions of mothering and its significance in the public sphere.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 252 pages
Publication date: 29 November 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Feminist Relations: Maternal Performance is a groundbreaking work that seamlessly weaves together the domains of performance, feminism, maternal studies, and ethics. It offers a comprehensive exploration of the maternal journey, spanning from maternal loss to pregnancy, birth, aftermath, maintenance, generations, and futures. Through its chapters, the book closely follows the life course, delving into the profound experiences and challenges that mothers encounter.

One of the central themes of Feminist Relations: Maternal Performance is the profound connection between performance and the maternal. Both performance and motherhood are deeply embodied experiences that unfold in real-time, and they revolve around the establishment of ethical relationships with others. Whether it's the child, the theatrical audience, or our broader communities, maternal performance seeks to engage and connect with these diverse stakeholders on a profound level.

The authors of this book argue that maternal performance is a powerful tool for bringing the largely unseen, private, and domestic work of motherhood into the public sphere. It challenges the traditional notion of motherhood as solely a private and domestic responsibility and recognizes the significance and value of maternal contributions to society. By highlighting maternal performance, the book encourages a broader understanding and appreciation of the complexities and nuances of motherhood, as well as the role of mothers in shaping our world.

One of the key aspects of maternal performance is its ability to challenge societal norms and stereotypes. Traditional notions of motherhood often perpetuate gender roles and expectations, which can limit women's opportunities and perpetuate inequality. Maternal performance, on the other hand, subverts these norms by showcasing the diverse and complex experiences of mothers and their contributions to society. It encourages a reimagining of motherhood as a multifaceted and dynamic role that encompasses both the private and public spheres, and it celebrates the strength and resilience of mothers in navigating the challenges of motherhood.

Another important aspect of maternal performance is its ability to foster empathy and understanding between different communities. Mothers play a critical role in bridging gaps and promoting social cohesion, and maternal performance can serve as a platform for sharing stories and experiences that challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. By highlighting the experiences of mothers from diverse backgrounds and cultures, maternal performance can help break down barriers and promote a sense of belonging and community.

In conclusion, Feminist Relations: Maternal Performance is a groundbreaking work that offers a comprehensive exploration of the maternal journey, highlighting the connection between performance, feminism, maternal studies, and ethics. By challenging societal norms, fostering empathy and understanding, and promoting the value of maternal contributions to society, this book contributes to a broader understanding of motherhood and its role in shaping our world. It is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the complexities and nuances of motherhood and the role of women in society.

Weight: 349g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030802288
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021