By: Eli, Hope, Niko, and Dan The Feminist Approach By: Eli, Hope, Niko, and Dan

What exactly is the Feminist approach? Feminist criticism is focused on a specific gender   Feminist critics look at gender specific pieces They try to disect those pieces to show what the piece is dictating about that gender

The History of the Theory Feminism has been going on for thousands of years   1790s-  Mary Wollstonecraft wrote A Vindication of the Rights of  Women  Beginning of first-wave feminism focused on gaining basic women's rights internationally (i.e. suffrage, ending foot-binding)  Second-wave feminism- 1960s focused on changing roles of women Third-wave feminism- late 80s focused on continuing the first and second waves, but in a more modern world.

The Good, the Bad... and the Theory The Bad (Cons)   This form of criticism is misunderstood as being sexist towards males It can turn a piece into a political debate The feminist approach is viewed as too theoretical The Good (Pros)   This approach shows women not as victims, but having their own power It has led to social reforms that have helped women across the world

Applied Criticism The poem deals with the hardships of women in modern society.   Dahlia Ravikovitch's mother was raised in a very religious household The poem often talks about the importance of flowers which is a feminine symbol.  The last part implies that she is the one who cares for the flowers. Another feministic symbol is the "beauty of nature" "My mother" is the main character of the poem and the key feministic symbol as it is also repetition

Works Cited McManus, Barbara F. "Feminist Literary Approach." Characteristics of a Feminine Approach. N.p.,           1998. Web. 26 Apr. 2010.  Karpel, Dalia. "The Essential Dahlia Ravikovitch." Haaretz.com. Haaretz, 17 Aug. 2006. Web. 26         Apr. 2010. "Feminism." Encyclopædia Britannica. 2010. Encyclopædia Britannica Online. 26 Apr. 2010