World-Making Renaissance Women: Rethinking Early Modern Women's Place in Literature and Culture

This book explores how women's literary contributions have been ignored in the early modern period, how to recognize their influence on literature and culture, and whether they can be seen as world-makers in their own right. It answers these questions through archival investigation, close reading, and literary-historical tracking.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 02 November 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This book delves into three fundamental inquiries. Firstly, it explores the prevailing misconceptions about the early modern period when we overlook the significant literary contributions of women. Secondly, it seeks to recognize the profound influence of women on the history of literature and culture, as well as their remarkable achievements in fields often associated with male dominance. Lastly, it examines the possibility of viewing certain women writers as world-makers in their own right, individuals whose artistic endeavors have left an indelible mark on cultural practices, extending their shaping authority beyond their own time.

The essays in this volume employ rigorous archival research, meticulous close reading, and thorough literary-historical analysis to pursue these inquiries. They meticulously trace the lives and works of sixteen remarkable women who played pivotal roles in shaping the world. Through their detailed examinations, the book offers a fresh perspective on the contributions of women to the literary and cultural landscape, challenging prevailing narratives and highlighting their invaluable contributions.

In conclusion, this book is a groundbreaking exploration of the overlooked literary contributions of women in the early modern period. It sheds light on the profound influence of women on the history of literature and culture, and it challenges the notion of their marginalization. By presenting a wealth of evidence and analysis, the book demonstrates the importance of recognizing and valuing the diverse voices and experiences of women in the world of literature and beyond.

ISBN-13: 9781108926393