Romeo And Juliet Feminist Criticism Essay

Feminist Criticism: The Gateway to Diversity

To quote the great, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, “feminist: a person who believes in the social, political and economic equality of the sexes.” Feminism. The ideology of women having an equal stand with men. The rise of feminism, in the 18th century, lead to a new form of criticism: feminist criticism. This type of criticism developed with the three waves of feminism. First wave feminism started in the early 1700s highlighting the inequalities between men and women. The book, A Vindication of the Rights of Women, by Mary Wollstonecraft illuminated the way for other first wave activists like Susan B. Anthony. Wollstonecraft wrote about “female rights and manners” and how the “improvement [of women] must not be overlooked.” She criticized the way women continued to be treated and the expectations held in the 18th century social environment. Wollstonecraft also stresses the male domination in the

As Juliet’s world seemed to shift to everything Romeo as soon as they meet. Juliet even kills herself just to be with Romeo. Feminist critics say this shows how Juliet becomes dependent on how Romeo feels, affecting the way she feels. While some say Romeo feels the same way towards Juliet making it a fair and genuine relationship, invalidating the feminist argument. However, the actions of Juliet’s father re-valids the argument because he told Juliet, who she was going to marry and when she says no to his opposition, he becomes enraged at her. Showing the power dynamics between the two characters and Juliet’s power in her society. Romeo and Juliet also exposes how women are forced into being feminine. Due to the fact that only one character, The Nurse, shows any type of masculine traits and when they are shown it is for comedic effect. This classic play exposes many issues within society that second wave feminist tried to