Women Writing Men: 1689 to 1869

This book explores how women writers create and question men and masculinity, highlighting the lack of examination of how women writers depict male characters. It focuses on womens representations of men and masculinity as they negotiate issues of class, gender, race, and sexuality, and will be of interest to academics, researchers, and advanced students of Literature, Gender Studies, Critical Theory, and Cultural Studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 152 pages
Publication date: 09 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate ways in which women writers have crafted and challenged notions of men and masculinity throughout history. It is important to note that men have also written about women, creating a rich tapestry of literary works that explore the complexities of gender relations. While the debate surrounding how men have portrayed women in literature has a long and distinguished history, there has been relatively less attention paid to how women writers depict male characters. This is a notable gap, particularly in light of the growing interest in studying 18th- and 19th-century masculinities. Women writers, positioned outside the mainstream, possessed a unique vantage point to deconstruct and examine cultural norms, enabling them to adopt a female gaze to expose the ruptures and cracks inherent within the rigid formation of the manly ideal.

The focus of this collection lies in the diverse representations of men and masculinity as women writers navigate complex issues such as class, gender, race, and sexuality. By examining these representations, the book offers valuable insights into the ways in which women have challenged traditional gender roles and stereotypes, subverting expectations and expanding the boundaries of literary exploration.

This book will appeal to a wide range of scholars, researchers, and advanced students of Literature, Gender Studies, Critical Theory, and Cultural Studies. The chapters included herein were originally published as a special issue of Womens Writing, showcasing the cutting-edge research and thought-provoking perspectives of leading scholars in the field.

In conclusion, Women Writing Men: 1689 to 1869 is a groundbreaking exploration of the dynamic interplay between women and men in literature. By delving into the representations of men and masculinity, this book sheds light on the complex ways in which gender roles have been constructed and challenged over centuries. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars and students alike, contributing to our understanding of the rich tapestry of gender relations in literature and beyond.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032227542