Introducing Feminism

by Cathia Jenainati

Published 6 September 2007
This is a brand new illustrated guide to the history, ideas and practice of feminism. The term 'feminism' came into English usage around the 1890s, but women's conscious struggle to resist discrimination and sexist oppression goes much further back. This completely new and updated edition of "Introducing Feminism" surveys the major developments that have affected women's lives from the 17th century to the present day. By highlighting the key social, political and literary ideas which have determined our thinking about the status of women across the globe, this book tells the story of remarkable individuals who actively challenged and changed traditions, social customs and laws. "Introducing Feminism" is an invaluable reference book for anyone seeking the story of how feminism reconfigured the world for women and men alike.

What is feminism? Why are we still talking about it, and what can it tell us about ourselves, our societies and prejudices?

In this unique, illustrated introduction, we'll explore the early history of conscious struggle against sexist oppression, through the modern "waves" of feminism, up to present-day conversations about MeToo, intersectional feminism, and women's rights in the Middle East. We'll look at critical theory, popular action and the social and cultural forces that affect attitudes toward gender, women's lives and the struggle for equality. And we'll hear about the contributions of pioneers like Mary Wollstonecraft, Simone de Beauvoir and Kimberle Crenshaw. As we'll see, feminism is at once global, local and individual.



Written by Cathia Jenainati with illustrations from Judy Groves and Jem Milton, Feminism: A Graphic Guide engages with the heated debates taking place in our homes, workplaces and public spaces -- and the work still to be done.