International Women’s Day
International Women’s Day on the 8th March is an annual event that aims to promote gender equality in all its forms. It is a truly inclusive, diverse and eclectic moment of impact worldwide. The day is an opportunity to shine a light on the history and current place of women's rights in society. It is about reinforcing key commitments as well as celebrating success.
As we celebrate the National Year of Reading this alignment is a wonderful chance to look at the contribution women have made in the world of literature.
Historically, literature has consistently been a powerful tool for people of all backgrounds to share their experiences of the world. Women writers have played an essential role in shaping the literature we know today with their unique points of view and storytelling skills. Their works have changed how we see the world through characters and storytelling that only writing could achieve.
Traditionally, women’s voices were not heard and it is testament to the progress made that women now can write without as many obstacles hindering their progress. Pioneering work from the Bronte sisters who broke down barriers to more contemporary writers like Toni Morrison- female authors continue to leave their mark on the world. Celebrating the work of female writers helps us all better understand people and how they see the world.
JANE AUSTEN wrote clever and amusing descriptions of British society during the 19th century. Her themes of love, marriage, family and social class and expectations are explored in a way we can all relate to. Some of her most celebrated works are ‘Pride and Prejudice’, ‘Emma’, ‘Persuasion’ and ‘Northanger Abbey.’
EMILY DICKINSON was an American poet who lived a quiet and private life. Her poetry is known for its unique style, exploring themes like nature, death and the human mind. Despite leading a life away from society, Dickinson wrote deep and meaningful poems about the many societal issues during her lifetime. She is considered one of the most influential figures on American poetry- her work remains timeless and continues to capture the hearts and minds of readers. Some of her poetry includes ‘Success is Counted Sweetest’, ‘I’m Nobody! Who are you?’’ I Felt a Funeral, In My Brain’, ’Hope is the Thing With Feathers’ and ‘We Talked as Girls Do’.
THE BRONTE SISTERS During a time when women writers were not well-received by society, three talented English sisters – Charlotte, Emily and Anne wrote books. Despite the challenges faced by women, all three sisters successfully published their novels. They used male pen names to hide their identity and increase their chances of publishing their books. Their books are still loved today because they discuss important themes and show how people can stand up for themselves. The Brontë sisters broke down barriers and paved the way for future female writers to be accepted by society. Works include Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights and Agnes Grey
AGATHA CHRISTIE was one of the most renowned crime writers of all time- she is also one of the best-selling fiction writers of all time. She wrote over 80 detective novels, many of which have been adapted into movies, TV shows and plays. Christie's writing style is known for its complex plot lines, misdirection and unexpected twists. Some of her books include ‘And Then There Were None’, ‘Murder on The Orient Express’ and ‘Death on the Nile’.
NELLE HARPER LEE was a famous American novelist. In 1960, she published her very first book, “To Kill a Mockingbird,” for which she won the 1961 Pulitzer Prize. Her debut work is now one of the classics of American literature. Her book explores the themes of racial injustice and unfair treatment that existed in the American South. The story and characters in her book were inspired by her own family and the people she knew from her childhood in Alabama.
TONI MORRISON was a highly influential author and editor who played an important role in American literature. She explored topics of race, identity and the African American experience in the United States. Her unique mindset and writing style captivated readers and encouraged important discussions about society's most pressing issues. In 1987, she was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for her exceptional contributions to the literature community. Morrison's writing continues to inspire readers worldwide to think and engage in meaningful conversations about the challenges we face as a society and how we can overcome them. Her works include ‘Beloved’, ‘The Bluest Eye’ and ‘Go Set a Watchman’.
