A generation of resistance

Abstract

Over the last few years in Egypt, female cartoonists have ventured into the traditionally male-dominated arena of political cartoons. For the first time, a group of female cartoonists has emerged, and is expressing its opinions about global, local, and female-related issues. This article discusses the works of young Egyptian female cartoonists and some of the initiatives in which they have participated. I explore their works as sites of resistance that challenge the power hierarchies within the patriarchal structure in post-revolution era Egypt. I use Karl Mannheim’s concept of generation style to suggest that their works will have long-term ramifications for the political scene in Egypt over the coming years. For, in spite of the aborted revolution, a young generation is still carving space that resists the dominant masculine structure in an effort to re-sculpt notions of equity in terms that appropriately reflect the gendered interests of women.