— by Nichole

In a world where the written word holds the power to challenge societal norms, writers have emerged as trailblazers in the fight for gender equality. From shattering stereotypes to amplifying marginalized voices, the literary landscape has become a battleground for the pursuit of true equity.

Writing has always been a means of passing on information about society, history, people, and culture since time immemorial. This informed the way people reacted consciously and unconsciously to their culture and society. The fight for gender equality began through writing in the feminist period. In the early days of feminism, female writers assumed male pseudonyms. They did this to avoid gender bias and increase their chances of getting published. Later they used their works to criticize those gender stereotypes and some began to publish using their real names. Writers play a significant role in gender roles and stereotypes through their works.

Perpetuating Gender Stereotypes

Research shows how literature can perpetuate harmful gender stereotypes. Moula (2014) conducted a study that analyzed the prevalence of gender stereotypes in children’s literature. The study found that traditional gender roles were heavily represented. Koumakpaï’s (2016) analysis of contemporary literary genres revealed significant findings. Genres such as romance tended to reinforce traditional gender norms. They depicted women as submissive and in need of male rescue.

The study also identified several common stereotypes associated with gender. For instance, women are often seen as nurturing and caring. Men, on the other hand, are perceived as dominant and aggressive.

Several studies focus on analyzing gender roles in contemporary literature. They also examine the impact of gender stereotypes on readers’ perceptions and attitudes. Khanna (2024) conducted a study investigating the effects of exposure to gender stereotypes in literature on readers’ beliefs. The study found that readers of literature containing gender stereotypes tend to hold traditional gender role beliefs. These readers also exhibit stereotypical attitudes. This suggests that the portrayal of gender roles and stereotypes in literature can have real-life consequences. It can perpetuate and reinforce societal norms.

Challenging Stereotypes

Some portrayals of gender roles in literature are controversial. They aim to challenge societal norms and provoke discussions on gender equality. The novel “Americanah” by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie provides an example. It explores the experiences of a Nigerian woman navigating love and identity in the United States. The protagonist, Ifemelu, challenges traditional expectations placed on women and questions the limitations and stereotypes imposed on her gender. (Rasmussen, 2017). This portrayal prompts readers to reflect on their own beliefs. It also encourages them to reconsider assumptions. The findings of this study also highlight regional and cultural variations in the depiction of gender roles. Similarly, an analysis by Khanna (2024) examines postcolonial literature. It reveals how authors from different regions and cultures use literature. They challenge or subvert traditional gender roles and stereotypes.

Conclusion

Writers have a role in shaping the perception of people regarding gender roles and stereotypes. Their opinions might differ depending on their culture. Opinions can also vary based on what region of the world they live in. These regional and cultural variations in depicting gender roles show how important it is to consider diverse perspectives. One should also think about various contexts when analyzing gender portrayal in literature. It emphasizes the need for a more inclusive and global understanding of gender roles. This involves moving beyond the limitations of a singular, Western-centric perspective.

References

1. Koumakpaï, T., & Towa-Sello, K. J. (2016). Exploring Women’s Identity in Selected Charles Dickens’s Works: A re-visitation from a Contemporary African Perspective. International Journal on Studies in English Language and Literature(IJSELL) Volume, 4, 85-95.

2. Khanna, A., & Singh, R. (2024). Subverting Stereotypes: Empowerment AND Agency OF Women IN Manjula Padmanabhan’s Works. Migration Letters, 21(S5), 1306-1314.

3. Moula, E., & Kabouropoulou, M. (2014). Art and Fairy Tales in an interdisciplinary interplay: teaching interventions towards negotiation and subversion of gender roles and stereotypes. Journal for Critical Education Policy Studies (JCEPS), 12(1).

4. Rasmussen, E. E., & Densley, R. L. (2017). Girl in a Country Song: Gender roles and objectification of women in popular country music across 1990 to 2014. Sex Roles, 76,188-201.