Title
Mothering as Feminism
Date of Award
Spring 5-10-2023
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Illustration & Visual Culture
Degree Type
Thesis
Abstract
This critical essay proposes the concept of mothering-as-feminism, with the intention of interrogating American ideals of mothering and caregiving. Reforming the way we view mothering, as it relates to feminism, requires a re-evaluation of the American role of women and mothers—and how they are portrayed (and therefore seen and understood), valued, and supported. Focusing on the evolution of feminist theory throughout the past 70 years, as well as personal and secondary experiences, I demonstrate how political and social change occurs generationally and is dependent on the education of our children. Ultimately, I show the important role children’s literature plays in the reshaping of our society, and how the liberation of all people relies on the fundamental viewing of a mother as, first and foremost, an autonomous person worthy of value and care.
Language
English
Program Chair
John Hendrix
Recommended Citation
Patel, Meera, "Mothering as Feminism" (2023). MFA in Illustration & Visual Culture. 23.
https://openscholarship.wustl.edu/mfa_illustration/23
Included in
Children's and Young Adult Literature Commons, Family, Life Course, and Society Commons, Feminist Philosophy Commons, Illustration Commons, Nonfiction Commons, Other Feminist, Gender, and Sexuality Studies Commons, Social Justice Commons, Women's History Commons, Women's Studies Commons