When Women Kill: Four Crimes Retold

Alia Trabucco Zeran's novel "When Women Kill" explores the stories of four iconic homicides perpetrated by Chilean women in the 20th century, revealing how society, the media, and men in power reacted to these killings, portraying their perpetrators as witches, hysterics, or femmes fatales. The book also includes timelines of events, diaries kept by Trabucco Zeran during her research, and addresses the obstacles and dilemmas she encountered.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 24 March 2022
Publisher: And Other Stories

Alia Trabucco Zeran, a renowned novelist, has delved deep into the intricate realm of violence against women, exploring not only its underlying causes but also the remarkable stories of women who defied the traditional roles prescribed by their culture. In her captivating work of narrative nonfiction, titled "When Women Kill," she delves into four iconic homicides perpetrated by Chilean women in the twentieth century. Through extensive research, Trabucco Zeran uncovers not only the chilling details of these murders but also the societal, media, and patriarchal reactions that portrayed the perpetrators as witches, hysterics, or femmes fatales. This portrayal, often characterized as either evil or out of control, sheds light on the societal perceptions and prejudices surrounding these crimes.

The lives of Corina Rojas, Rosa Faundez, Carolina Geel, and Teresa Alfaro took a tragic turn when they committed murder, leaving a lasting impact on the legal system and inspiring numerous artistic creations. These crimes not only resulted in significant court decisions but also sparked a wave of literature, poetry, short stories, paintings, plays, songs, and films. Throughout the past century, these works have been produced, reproduced, and celebrated, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of these women and the crimes they committed.

In "When Women Kill," Trabucco Zeran provides a comprehensive timeline of events leading up to and following the killings, as well as the authorities' apprehension, trials, and media representation throughout the judicial process. Alongside this often horrifying testimony, she shares her personal diaries, detailing the obstacles and dilemmas she encountered while undertaking this discomfiting yet necessary project. Trabucco Zeran's dedication to shedding light on the complexities of gender-based violence and challenging societal norms is evident in her meticulous research and compelling storytelling.

Through her work, Trabucco Zeran encourages us to reexamine our perceptions of women and violence, challenging the stereotypes and biases that perpetuate gender inequality. "When Women Kill" serves as a powerful reminder that women are agents of change, capable of defying societal expectations and making significant contributions to society. It is a testament to the resilience and strength of women who have faced unimaginable adversity and emerged as agents of transformation.

Alia Trabucco Zeran's groundbreaking work has earned her the prestigious 2022 British Academy Prize for Global Cultural Understanding, recognizing her contributions to understanding and promoting cultural understanding. Her novel "When Women Kill" is a testament to the power of storytelling and the importance of challenging societal norms, and it will continue to inspire and educate readers for generations to come.

Weight: 226g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913505264