Sandra Gilbert

Definition

Sandra Gilbert is an influential American feminist literary critic, poet, and essayist, known for her pioneering work in feminist literary theory. She, along with Susan Gubar, co-authored 'The Madwoman in the Attic,' which explores the representation of women in 19th-century literature. Gilbert's work has significantly contributed to feminist myth criticism by analyzing how myths shape female identity and the ways in which literature can subvert traditional gender roles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sandra Gilbert's collaboration with Susan Gubar has had a lasting impact on feminist literary criticism, inspiring generations of scholars to explore gender dynamics in literature.
2. Gilbert argues that traditional literary forms often marginalize women's voices and that a feminist approach reveals deeper insights into female experiences.
3. Her analysis extends beyond literature to consider the cultural myths surrounding femininity, such as those found in fairy tales and classical myths.
4. Gilbert emphasizes the importance of reclaiming female narratives to challenge the dominant patriarchal narratives present in literature.
5. Her work often discusses the intersection of race, class, and gender, highlighting how these factors influence women's representations in literature.

Review Questions

• How does Sandra Gilbert's work contribute to our understanding of female representation in literature?
  • Sandra Gilbert's work sheds light on how female characters are often portrayed within the confines of patriarchal narratives. By analyzing works from the 19th century, she reveals the struggles that women face in literature, showing how these depictions can either reinforce or challenge societal norms. Her critical lens encourages readers to rethink traditional literary interpretations and appreciate the complexity of female experiences.
• In what ways do Gilbert and Gubar's ideas in 'The Madwoman in the Attic' reflect broader themes of feminist myth criticism?
  • In 'The Madwoman in the Attic,' Gilbert and Gubar explore themes central to feminist myth criticism, such as the cultural myths surrounding femininity and madness. They argue that these myths shape women's identities and limit their agency within literature. By examining how female characters are often depicted as either angelic figures or madwomen, they highlight the need to recontextualize these narratives to empower women and reveal their true complexities.
• Evaluate the significance of reclaiming female narratives as proposed by Sandra Gilbert in relation to feminist myth criticism.
  • Reclaiming female narratives is significant because it challenges and disrupts established patriarchal storytelling practices. Sandra Gilbert advocates for this reclamation as a means to elevate women's voices and experiences, which have historically been marginalized. This practice not only reshapes literary history but also encourages contemporary writers to create authentic representations of women that reflect their diverse realities. By doing so, it fosters a richer understanding of gender dynamics within literature and culture.

Related terms

Feminist Literary Criticism: A critical approach that examines literature through the lens of feminist theory, focusing on the portrayal of women and the power dynamics between genders.

The Madwoman in the Attic: A landmark book co-authored by Sandra Gilbert and Susan Gubar, analyzing female characters in 19th-century literature and their struggles against patriarchal constraints.

Gynocriticism: A term coined by Elaine Showalter that refers to the study of women's writing and female experience, highlighting women's literary history and contributions.