The Man-Made World; Or, Our Androcentric Culture by Charlotte Perkins Gilman
Author: Charlotte Perkins Gilman | Published: 1911
The Man-Made World; Or, Our Androcentric Culture Synopsis
"The Man-Made World; Or Our Androcentric Culture" by Charlotte Perkins Gilman is a thought-provoking analysis of gender inequality and its pervasive influence on society. Published in 1911, this collection of essays challenges the traditional notions of gender roles and the male-dominated culture that underpins them. Gilman exposes how historical norms have constructed a world centered around men, often relegating women to secondary roles. Through rigorous examination, she advocates for a more balanced and equitable society that values the contributions and potential of both genders. Gilman's insightful critique of the androcentric culture serves as a rallying cry for change, urging readers to question and challenge deeply ingrained biases. Her work remains a significant piece in feminist literature, inspiring ongoing discussions on gender, culture, and the necessity of reshaping societal paradigms for a more inclusive future.
Excerpt from The Man-Made World; Or, Our Androcentric Culture Online Book
Let us begin, inoffensively, with sheep. The sheep is a beast with which we are all familiar, being much used in religious imagery; the common stock of painters; a staple article of diet; one of our main sources of clothing; and an everyday symbol of bashfulness and stupidity.
In some grazing regions the sheep is an object of terror, destroying grass, bush and forest by omnipresent nibbling; on the great plains, sheep-keeping frequently results in insanity, owing to the loneliness of the shepherd, and the monotonous appearance and behavior of the sheep.
About Charlotte Perkins Gilman
Charlotte Perkins Gilman was an influential 20th century feminist writer and thinker. Born in Connecticut in 1860, she is best known for her short story “The Yellow Wallpaper”, a searing critique of the misogyny and mistreatment of women within medical treatments during this period. In addition to her writing, she was also a prominent lecturer on social reform and the economic independence of women.
Gilman championed for progressive thoughts regarding gender roles such as equal pay for equal work and supported suffrage before it became law. Her works inspired generations of writers to explore themes of gender injustice, female political power, and matriarchal societies through literature. She passed away in 1935 but her legacy still remains today with new generations discovering her groundbreaking works that continue to influence modern feminist thought. Find out more about Charlotte Perkins Gilman at sevenov.com.