Examining Gender Injustice in Hamnet: Relevance to Modern Feminist Discourse

Abstract

This research examines the gender injustice depicted in Maggie O’Farrell’s Hamnet and analyzes its relevance to contemporary feminist discourse. Using the theoretical framework of liberal feminism, with reference to Betty Friedan’s (1963) theory, this study identifies and examines various forms of gender injustice experienced by the female protagonist, Agnes, including marginalization, violence, and double burden. The research aims to reveal how Hamnet reflects and criticizes the gender inequality of her time.  This analysis is conducted to highlight how historical fiction narratives can expose enduring patterns of gender oppression and contribute to our understanding of contemporary feminist challenges. This research uses a descriptive qualitative method with Hamnet as the main data source.  The purpose of this study is to show how literary representations of historical gender oppression can illuminate ongoing feminist struggles, contribute to contemporary feminist theory, and help readers understand the continuity of women's experiences over the centuries.  The study concludes that O’Farrell’s historical fiction serves as a powerful lens through which to examine the historical underpinnings of present-day gender injustice, offering valuable insights for modern feminist discourse.