Feminism/Feminist Theory

Definition

Feminism/feminist theory is an ideological and political approach aimed at understanding and remedying unjust structural and cultural asymmetries of power between women and men. Characterized by a growing reliance on liberal theory and an increasing interest in social justice, the Victorian era marks the beginning of modern thought on gender equality. Feminist women writers were critical to the formation and expansion of this important intellectual tradition. Their work focused on several key issues that were widely understood as fundamental to advancing women’s political rights and general welfare. These core issues included access to higher education, comprehensive marriage reform (including the reform of laws concerning property, child custody, domestic violence, and divorce), paid work and working conditions, sex work/prostitution, and suffrage. Victorian feminists frequently saw these issues as intertwined, and feminist writers and activists were often involved in...