Second-wave feminism

Definition

Second-wave feminism refers to the period of feminist activism that began in the early 1960s and continued into the 1980s, focusing on issues such as gender equality, reproductive rights, and workplace discrimination. This wave built on the achievements of first-wave feminism, expanding its scope to address social, cultural, and political inequalities faced by women. It played a significant role in shaping feminist theatre, with artists using performance to challenge patriarchal narratives and promote female voices.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Second-wave feminism was characterized by a greater emphasis on intersectionality, recognizing that women's experiences are shaped by race, class, and sexuality.
2. The movement resulted in significant legal and social changes, including the passing of laws for equal pay and reproductive rights.
3. Activists utilized various forms of media, including theatre, to raise awareness about women's issues and advocate for change.
4. Prominent figures during this wave included Betty Friedan and Gloria Steinem, who helped mobilize women across diverse backgrounds.
5. Second-wave feminism laid the groundwork for future feminist movements by addressing both systemic inequalities and individual empowerment.

Review Questions

• How did second-wave feminism influence the emergence of feminist theatre?
  • Second-wave feminism significantly influenced feminist theatre by encouraging playwrights and performers to create works that highlighted women's experiences and challenged traditional gender roles. This era saw a rise in productions that addressed themes such as sexual liberation, domestic violence, and workplace discrimination. Through these performances, artists sought to amplify female voices and critique patriarchal structures, making feminist theatre an essential platform for social change.
• What role did Pam Gems play in biographical feminist drama during the second-wave feminist movement?
  • Pam Gems was a key figure in biographical feminist drama during the second wave, using her plays to explore the lives of historical women and shed light on their struggles. Her work often focused on marginalized figures whose stories were overlooked in traditional narratives. By bringing these women's experiences to the forefront, Gems not only contributed to the visibility of female artists but also challenged audiences to reconsider their perceptions of women's roles in society.
• Evaluate the impact of second-wave feminism on societal attitudes towards gender equality and representation in theatre today.
  • The impact of second-wave feminism on societal attitudes towards gender equality has been profound and long-lasting, particularly in the realm of theatre. This wave catalyzed conversations around representation, leading to increased opportunities for female playwrights and performers. Today, the principles established by second-wave feminists continue to resonate, as contemporary artists strive to create inclusive spaces that challenge stereotypes and celebrate diverse narratives. The legacies of this movement have paved the way for ongoing activism in the arts, making gender equity a central concern in theatre today.

Related terms

feminist theatre: A genre of theatre that emerged during the feminist movement, aiming to represent women's experiences and challenge traditional gender roles.

patriarchy:

A social system in which men hold primary power and dominate in roles of political leadership, moral authority, social privilege, and control of property.

biographical drama: A genre of theatre that dramatizes the lives of real individuals, often highlighting underrepresented voices and significant contributions from marginalized groups.