Women’s Artistic Dissent: Repelling Totalitarianism in Pre-1989 Czechoslovakia

Czech women writers went underground to resist totalitarianism and retain their humanity by writing, painting, sculpting, and creating supportive communities. This book explores the fiction, poetry, and life-sustaining activities of Eva Švankmajerová and Eda Kriseová, who wrote and engaged in dissent during the Soviet rule. Womens Artistic Dissent: Repelling Totalitarianism in pre-1989 Czechoslovakia showcases the work of these women, often undervalued and unacknowledged, and sheds new light on how individuals and communities can resist and repel dictatorial regimes.

Format: Hardback
Length: 278 pages
Publication date: 04 December 2023
Publisher: Lexington Books

To endure the oppressive grip of totalitarianism and preserve their humanity, Czech women writers resorted to clandestine activities, engaging in the written word, painting, sculpting, and forming nurturing communities. This captivating book delves into the realm of fiction, poetry, and the life-sustaining endeavors of Eva Švankmajerová, affectionately known as the "Mother of Czech Surrealism," and Eda Kriseová, a journalist, fiction writer, essayist, and activist who held a prominent position in President Václav Havel's first Cabinet. Among the many Czech women who courageously wrote and actively engaged in dissent during the challenging years of Soviet rule in Czechoslovakia, these two remarkable figures stand out.

Womens Artistic Dissent: Repelling Totalitarianism in pre-1989 Czechoslovakia serves as a poignant exploration, shedding light on the often overlooked and underappreciated artistic contributions of women during that period. Flanagan and Waisserová meticulously detail the diverse range of ways in which women courageously resisted the oppressive regime, offering a fresh perspective on the resilience and determination of individuals and communities in the face of dictatorial rule.

Through their literary creations and ecological endeavors, these women demonstrated their unwavering commitment to preserving their humanity and fighting against the forces of repression. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest of times, the human spirit can thrive, and creativity can flourish, providing a glimmer of hope and inspiration for those who continue to face similar challenges today.

This book is a valuable addition to the literature on totalitarianism and women's resistance, offering a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics that shaped the lives of these artists and their communities. It encourages readers to reflect on the importance of artistic expression and the role it plays in shaping societies.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 160 x 236 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781666904727