Fiction as feminist pedagogy: an examination of curriculum and teaching strategies embodied in the novel

Abstract

This article argues that fiction can operate as a critical feminist curriculum and discusses how this manifests itself in terms of content and teaching methodologies. It uses a close reading of Naomi Alderman's dystopian fiction The Power (2016) to explore this, complemented by an analysis of a discussion between Alderman and readers participating in a book club organised through the UK discussion forum Mumsnet. It concludes that fiction can stimulate learning and critical reflection, in this instance with respect to gender and power, thus functioning as critical feminist pedagogy.

Constructing Sexual Victimization: A Thematic Analysis of Reader Responses to A Literary Female-on-Male Rape Story on Goodreads

“…Α large body of work suggests that fiction can be used as a pedagogical tool for students to reflect on difficult and conflicting social issues and develop critical thinking (e.g., Jarvis, 2020). Under this light, engaging students through the use of literature in open discussions that include tailored content addressing the specific needs of male victims and LGBTQ+ sexual minorities, can counter their implicit rape myths and even enable them to recognize themselves as potential victims or offenders.…”

Merging Historical Feminist Fiction-Based Research With the Craft of Fiction Writing: Engaging Readers in Complex Academic Topics Through Story

“…As an adult education scholar, I am intrigued by the ways in which readers can learn from fiction. For instance, Jarvis (2020) explores "fiction as feminist pedagogy" in her discussion of how "specific fiction uses literary and rhetorical strategies as part of an educative process" (p. 118). She has used fiction with research participants (Jarvis, 2006), asking them to read novels and write short fiction in order to engage critically with romantic ideals and gendered identities (see also Jarvis, 1999Jarvis, , 2012.…”