Feminist literary criticism has become a significant movement, reshaping how we view literature, culture, and society. By focusing on gender roles, identity, and the representation of women, this type of criticism provides crucial insights into both historical and modern works. Whether you’re new to feminist literary theory or seeking to deepen your understanding, these Top 10 Books on Feminist Literary Criticism will guide you through essential texts and ideas.
Written by: Leah Michaels
Leah Michaels is a literary scholar with a focus on feminist theory, gender studies, and literary criticism. She has authored several articles on women in literature, delving into the intricate ways narratives shape gender perceptions across cultures and eras.
10. Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma
Author: Claire Dederer
⭐ 4.0 out of 5 stars (692 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
This provocative work delves into the complexities of separating an artist’s work from their personal transgressions, a recurring topic in feminist discourse. Dederer’s insights offer a nuanced perspective on the nature of fame, art, and the flawed individuals behind it all.
Why You’ll Love It
Dederer’s candid and accessible style makes this a captivating read, especially for those grappling with the question of how we engage with art in the #MeToo era.
Fun Fact
This book grew out of an essay that went viral in 2017, sparking conversations about how to navigate our relationships with controversial figures in the arts.
9. The Heroine’s Journey: Woman’s Quest for Wholeness
Author: Maureen Murdock
⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (2,078 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
Murdock’s classic explores the archetypal journey of women in myth and literature, offering a feminist counterpart to Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey. This book is pivotal in understanding how women’s narratives differ and how they strive for personal and collective empowerment.
Why You’ll Love It
The book provides a fresh lens on myth and narrative structures, making it ideal for those exploring feminist readings of classic stories and mythologies.
Fun Fact
Murdock wrote this book in response to Campbell’s The Hero with a Thousand Faces, which she felt did not adequately address the female experience.
8. Dorothy Parker in Hollywood
Author: Gail Crowther
⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (73 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
A tribute to one of the most iconic feminist writers of the early 20th century, this book examines Dorothy Parker’s sharp wit, keen observations, and contributions to feminist literature.
Why You’ll Love It
If you love witty, sharp-tongued critiques of gender norms and social hypocrisy, this book provides a delightful exploration of Parker’s Hollywood years.
Fun Fact
Dorothy Parker was one of the founding members of the Hollywood Anti-Nazi League and used her platform to fight against fascism in the 1930s.
7. Pandora’s Jar: Women in the Greek Myths
Author: Natalie Haynes
⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (2,078 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
Natalie Haynes re-examines the often sidelined women of Greek mythology, giving voices to figures like Pandora, Medusa, and Helen of Troy. Her modern interpretations reveal deeper feminist themes in these ancient stories.
Why You’ll Love It
This book offers a feminist reinterpretation of classic myths, challenging traditional narratives that often villainize or marginalize women.
Fun Fact
Natalie Haynes is a comedian-turned-writer, bringing a humorous yet incisive tone to her feminist critique of Greek myths.
6. Divine Might: Goddesses in Greek Myth
Author: Natalie Haynes
⭐ 4.2 out of 5 stars (273 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
Haynes returns with an in-depth look at the goddesses of Greek mythology. Divine Might is essential for anyone exploring the powerful, yet often overlooked, female figures in ancient myths.
Why You’ll Love It
This book provides a refreshing feminist critique of mythology, focusing on the strength and complexity of divine female figures.
Fun Fact
Haynes’s witty narrative voice makes the gods and goddesses feel surprisingly contemporary, while still honoring their historical significance.
5. Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion
Author: Jia Tolentino
⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (3,237 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
In this sharp, thought-provoking collection of essays, Tolentino tackles issues of identity, self-perception, and societal pressures, offering a feminist critique of how modern women are shaped by culture.
Why You’ll Love It
Tolentino’s witty and insightful essays will appeal to readers interested in a contemporary feminist critique of modern society’s obsessions with image and identity.
Fun Fact
Before gaining literary fame, Jia Tolentino worked at The Hairpin and Jezebel, two prominent feminist media platforms.
4. Serabelle: Where the Wealthy Come to Play
Author: Tavi Taylor Black
⭐ 3.9 out of 5 stars (287 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
Tavi Taylor Black’s Serabelle takes readers into a world where wealth and power play out through gender dynamics, making it a critical addition to feminist literary criticism.
Why You’ll Love It
This novel offers a thrilling feminist narrative that explores power dynamics, making it a great read for those interested in contemporary feminist fiction.
Fun Fact
The author, Tavi Taylor Black, has been compared to Gillian Flynn for her ability to weave complex female characters into suspenseful narratives.
3. Pandora’s Jar: Women in the Greek Myths
Author: Natalie Haynes
⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (2,078 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
In this profound exploration of women in Greek mythology, Natalie Haynes reinvigorates the stories of well-known and lesser-known female figures in ancient myths.
Why You’ll Love It
Haynes’ work reclaims narratives, shifting the focus to the complexities and contributions of female characters who have historically been underrepresented.
Fun Fact
Haynes started her career as a stand-up comedian, which adds a unique and engaging voice to her scholarly work.
2. Women Who Run With the Wolves: Myths and Stories of the Wild Woman Archetype
Author: Clarissa Pinkola Estés
⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (15,943 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
This seminal work of feminist literary criticism explores myths and folklore from various cultures, celebrating the strength and intuition of women. Estés redefines traditional narratives, bringing to light the power of the feminine spirit.
Why You’ll Love It
The timeless wisdom in Estés’ book has made it a go-to for those seeking to understand the deep, untapped feminine power that exists in ancient and modern stories.
Fun Fact
Estés is a Jungian psychoanalyst, and this book reflects her interest in how mythological stories inform the psyche and culture.
1. Monsters: A Fan’s Dilemma
Author: Claire Dederer
⭐ 4.0 out of 5 stars (692 ratings)
Category: Feminist Literary Criticism
Dederer’s book remains relevant for those looking at feminist literary criticism through the lens of art, fame, and problematic figures in the entertainment industry. A critical and reflective exploration of fame, transgressions, and our relationships to the artists we love and hate.
Why You’ll Love It
Dederer tackles modern feminist dilemmas with grace and depth, making it an essential read for anyone interested in feminist perspectives on celebrity culture.
Fun Fact
The title, Monsters, reflects the artist’s monstrous transgressions while also pointing to the monstrous expectations placed on women in the industry.
Check out some more Top10 categories
“As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”