Feminism in Āṇṭāḷ Priyadarśini Novels

ஆண்டாள் பிரியதர்ஷினி நாவல்களில் பெண்ணியம்

Abstract

In the creation of God, both men and women are equal beings. Together, they constitute human society. One of the highest virtues of humanity is the recognition and respect of one human being for another. However, patriarchal societies often fail to recognize women as equals. The struggles faced by women in daily life—social challenges, rejection, and discrimination—give rise to feminist perspectives. Women encounter obstacles at various stages of life, including education, love, lack of rights, marital life challenges, dowry-related issues, societal pressure, and widowhood. Addressing these challenges is crucial for societal transformation. This paper analyzes these issues from a feminist perspective, examining how Āṇṭāḷ Priyadarśini’s novels reflect women’s experiences, struggles, and the systemic barriers they face.