Ecofeminist invitations in the works of Sindiwe Magona

Dianne Shober

doi:10.4102/lit.v38i1.1392

Abstract

The global challenges of environmental devastation and gender-based injustice require a multifocal approach in appropriating effective solutions. While acknowledging the effectual endeavours initiated through the social and natural sciences to counteract these areas of degradation, this paper offers another field of potential mediation: ecofeminist literary criticism. Through its interrogation of selected works by the black South African writer, Sindiwe Magona, it seeks to reveal the value of literature as a tool to counteract destructive political and patriarchal rhetorical paradigms, which have served to oppress nature and women and, through ecofeminist discourse, mitigate lasting global change.

Highlights

During the times of South Africa’s greatest struggles, it was the probing literary expressions of our insightful and incendiary writers who unblinkered the eyes of the global community to the levels of oppression experienced by the majority of South Africans
Ecofeminist literary criticism recognises the significance of language to construct social order and to stylise gender through expressions and terms that shape the position and condition of women and nature
The ecofeminist literary criticism utilised in this project interrogates the dynamic synergy of the social and natural environment, especially as they connect to issues of gender and socio-cultural inclusion

Summary

Introduction

During the times of South Africa’s greatest struggles, it was the probing literary expressions of our insightful and incendiary writers who unblinkered the eyes of the global community to the levels of oppression experienced by the majority of South Africans. Ecofeminist literary criticism recognises the significance of language to construct social order and to stylise gender through expressions and terms that shape the position and condition of women and nature.

Results

Conclusion