OVERVIEW OF LITERATURE ON THE REPRESENTATION OF WOMEN IN LITERATURE

Abstract

Women writers have played a significant role in the world literature, despite the historical obstacles they faced in accessing education and publishing opportunities. Their contributions to literature have been instrumental in shaping cultural and social narratives, and challenging patriarchal norms and gender stereotypes. Moreover, women writers have also contributed to the development of literary genres, such as the novel and the memoir. Women writers were instrumental in shaping the form of the novel, with writers such as Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters, who explored the complexities of women’s lives and relationships. Similarly, women writers have been influential in the development of memoir as a literary genre.

Historically, women writers faced numerous obstacles that limited their opportunities to write and publish. Women were often denied access to education, which was seen as a masculine privilege, and their writing was often dismissed as frivolous or amateurish. Additionally, the publishing industry was dominated by men, who were often reluctant to publish works by women. However, despite these obstacles, women writers persevered and their works have had a profound impact on literature and society.