The Representation of Women in Youssef Ziedan’s Azazeel: A Feminist Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18533/journal.v5i3.918Keywords:
Patriarchy, gender stereotypes, male gaze, patriarchal religionAbstract
This study is a feminist exploration of Ziedan’s Azazeel that unmasks the patriarchal ideology, the limitations faced by women because of the male gaze, women’s other-ing stereotypes, and the societal codes that define women’s roles in the Arab world, in general, and Egypt, in particular. Ziedan gives special attention to the interrogation of patriarchy, transgression of gender boundaries, and objectification of women, thereby highlighting the crisis of women in his society. He complicates this perception by presenting women figures (Octavia, Martha and Hypatia) as angelic, heroic, enlightening, and admirable in their pursuit of independence and freedom. The distinct voices/acts of these women are especially significant in terms of their particular contributions to chaffing, demystifying, and disturbing the patriarchal dominant certainties of their society.
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