AWomen’s self-expression and creativity
BPolitical activism
CAnalyzing male-dominated literature
DRecovering forgotten male authors
Answer:
A. Women’s self-expression and creativity
Read Explanation:
In feminist literary criticism, the "Female Phase" refers to a stage where women writers focus on authentically expressing their own female experiences and perspectives, rejecting the need to imitate male writing styles and instead creating a distinct literary tradition rooted in women's lived realities; it is considered a phase of self-discovery and autonomy in female authorship, most notably associated with the work of theorist Elaine Showalter.
Key points about the Female Phase:
Focus on female experience:
Unlike earlier phases where women writers might try to fit into male literary norms, the Female Phase emphasizes exploring themes and perspectives unique to women's lives.
Rejection of imitation:
Women writers in this phase actively move away from mimicking male writing styles and instead seek to develop their own distinct voice and aesthetic.
Self-discovery:
This phase is characterized by a sense of self-awareness and exploration of the complexities of female identity.
Literary theorist:
Elaine Showalter is credited with defining the "Female Phase" as part of her model of feminist literary criticism, which also includes the "Feminine Phase" and the "Feminist Phase".