Investigating Feminism Movement in Two Novels by Al Tayeb Salih and Two Novels by Iris Murdoch

Abstract

1960s and 70s witnessed voices calling for women liberation which are shaped in a movement called "Feminism". Since Al Tayed Salih and Iris Murdoch lived in that era, this study investigates four of their novels to see to what extent they touch issues of feminism. So, this study entails a brief background about this movement and its interactions with literature.The study aims to see the effects of the feminism movement contributions upon the writings of Al TayebSalih and Iris Murdoch and how they try to portray their characters to speak for their societies. To be exact, two novels from each writer's works are selected. The study, also, aims to find out if those writers suggest some solutions to the problems found in their societies through interactions with influencing movements such as the feminism. Initiating methodologies, this study offers a critical analysis of two novels by Salih (The Season of Migration to the North, The Wedding of Zein) and two novels by Iris Murdoch (The Sandcastle and The Black Prince). At one stage, the study follows the analytical approach to investigate the four works mentioned to find answers for the study questions. Moreover, some other approaches are focused on as feminism approach when methodologies are defended. Throughout the analysis, it becomes clear that Salih and Murdoch postulate some feminism ideas in their writings such as women power, freedom from old traditions' conventions and women education. This hits some enrolling of those writers with feminism. Additionally, the analysis comes to reach that women in these two societies, Sudanese and British, have gained much as a result of feminism contributions. The study concludes that Salih and Murdoch try to attract people's attentions to feminism by letting them think about things such as equality, women rights, women health and nature caring. Minding the analysis done and the questions raised, the study sorts out some recommendations. Thus, it is highly recommended that those fine books in question need careful re-reading to get more out of them. Societies, especially the Sudanese, are to recognize the bright sides of feminism movement with adhering to respectful moralities.