Question

Gynocriticism focuses on:

• A. Male representations of women
• B. Women as readers of literature
• C. Women as producers of literature
• D. Analyzing patriarchal themes

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Women as producers of literature

Gynocriticism primarily focuses on women as producers of literature, meaning it examines and analyzes the works created by female writers, aiming to establish a distinct literary tradition based on female experiences and perspectives rather than solely relying on male-centric literary analysis. 

Key points about gynocriticism:

• Coined by Elaine Showalter:

  The term "gynocriticism" was introduced by literary critic Elaine Showalter to specifically highlight the study of women as writers. 

• Female subjectivity:

  Gynocriticism emphasizes the exploration of female subjectivity, examining how women writers express their unique experiences and perspectives in their works. 

• Breaking from male-centric criticism:

  This approach challenges traditional literary criticism which often centered on male authors and experiences, aiming to create a separate framework for analyzing women's writing.