An Open Learning through Feminist Writing for Self-Discovery and Intellectual Development

Abstract

This paper aims to demonstrate the impact of feminist writing as a new paradigm for education in the 21st Century to provoke awareness of gender inequity issues and to maintain justice and healthy living in society. It discusses the two selected works by prominent feminist authors: Alice walker’s The Color Purple and Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club to reflect different nature of gender problems, and equity issues by providing an overview of feminist movements in the west, inclusive of leading feminist pioneers and their works that impact the works of feminist authors. The investigation of the two novels was based on the conflicts derived from gender stereotypes, illiteracy, mainstream stream male- dominant values, racism and cross-cultural conflicts derived from social prejudices against women that resulted in their oppression, suffering and poverty. Both works provide solutions to empower women through sisterhood, and the bond of illiterate mothers, who become witty through experiences and their blunt daughters, formal and informal education that empower women to be economically, and personally independent. The conclusion confirms that feminist writing and great classics are best learning resources for young learners to make them insightful of the social problems and conflicts, and their roles to enhance a healthy society.