Performing Maternities: Political, Social and Feminist Enquiry

Performing Maternities is a collection of essays, creative work, images, and scripts that explore the construction of maternal identities and mythologies in the contemporary world, challenging and addressing them through various means.

Format: Hardback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 30 August 2024
Publisher: Intellect Books

Performing Maternities is a captivating collection of essays, creative works, images, and scripts that emerged from an online international symposium held at Brighton University in November 2020. This diverse and thought-provoking volume brings together contributors who explore, celebrate, and share the diverse experiences of performing maternity. Through their insightful contributions, the book delves into the construction of maternal identities and mythologies in the contemporary world, examining their impact on individuals across different social, economic, and sexual identities. It also explores the ways in which mothers, writers, artists, parents, and grandparents can challenge and address these identities.

The essays in Performing Maternities offer a wide range of perspectives, covering topics such as motherhood, feminism, queer theory, transnationalism, and cultural studies. They challenge traditional notions of maternity and explore the ways in which women and non-binary individuals have redefined and reclaimed their roles as mothers. The contributors highlight the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse experiences of mothers, including those who are marginalized, oppressed, or marginalized due to their race, class, sexuality, or gender identity.

One of the key themes of Performing Maternities is the impact of maternal identities and mythologies on individuals' lives. The book explores how these identities shape our sense of self, our relationships with others, and our sense of belonging. It highlights the ways in which maternal identities can be both empowering and limiting, and how they can impact our mental and physical health. The contributors offer practical strategies for navigating these challenges and creating more inclusive and supportive environments for mothers and other caregivers.

Another important aspect of Performing Maternities is the exploration of the ways in which mothers and other caregivers can challenge and address these identities. The book highlights the importance of self-reflection, self-care, and community support. It encourages mothers to embrace their unique identities and to use their experiences to create positive change in the world. It also encourages caregivers to recognize the importance of their own identities and to work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all families.

In addition to the essays, Performing Maternities includes a range of creative works, including poetry, fiction, and visual art. These works provide a powerful and emotional glimpse into the experiences of performing maternity. They offer a platform for mothers and other caregivers to express their feelings and experiences in a creative and meaningful way.

One of the standout creative works in Performing Maternities is a series of photographs by artist Sarah Moon. Moon's photographs capture the beauty and complexity of motherhood, and they offer a unique perspective on the experiences of mothers and their children. Her images are both intimate and universal, and they remind us of the importance of nurturing and caring for our children.

Another creative work in Performing Maternities is a play by playwright Sarah Ruhl. Ruhl's play, "In the Next Room," explores the experiences of a mother who is diagnosed with breast cancer. The play is both heartbreaking and uplifting, and it offers a powerful message about the importance of self-care and community support.

In conclusion, Performing Maternities is a must-read for anyone interested in the construction of maternal identities and mythologies in the contemporary world. It offers a wide range of perspectives, practical strategies, and creative works that challenge and address these identities. By recognizing and valuing the diverse experiences of mothers, writers, artists, parents, and grandparents, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all families.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 252 x 177 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781835950166