The History of Women's Writing

Abstract

The concept feminism encompasses to an intense awareness of feminine identity and concerns, which has become a significant theme in literature since its rise and development. Despite its controversial nature, this essay offers a comprehensive understanding of feminist literature, including various types such as liberal feminism, radical feminism, Marxist feminism, socialist feminism, cultural feminism, black/African feminism, womanism, African womanism and satanism, and mothers. Women writers have contributed aesthetically and intellectually to the progress and development of society, rejecting the notion of inferiority and highlighting their capabilities. The struggle for equal treatment and identity is a recurring theme in feminist literature. The developing force of the women's liberation movement led to an evaluation of texts from a new perspective, shifting interest to women characters and theorists. In Nigeria, particularly the Northern part, women are traditionally restricted from voicing their opinions, and their decisions are made by male-dominating figures. This paper traces the origin of women's writing worldwide, in Africa and Nigeria; using the theoretical frameworks and text analysis to derive data and suggestions on how women writers can improve their literary status in Nigeria, especially the Northern Nigeria.