The Softer They Come: Elly Tams reviews ‘The Declining Significance Of Homophobia’

The Declining Significance of Homophobia is, according to its author, a ‘Good News story’ (p xxv). I capitalise ‘Good News’ for reasons that shall become clear. But focusing first on the main thrust of the thesis (and there is no reference to it but I am certain this is a book written out of a PhD thesis), the ‘good news’ is how teenage boys in the UK are less homophobic than in previous eras. Good news indeed. Continue reading “The Softer They Come: Elly Tams reviews ‘The Declining Significance Of Homophobia’”

Aftermath – Marriage and the Feminist

I have just finished reading Rachel Cusk’s most recent book which reflects on the breakup of her marriage.  This book caused quite a stir when it was published in early March – some critics felt it was too self-indulgent, others bemoaned the poor husband and children having their stories so publically aired.  I began to read it with great anticipation, however, largely because her previous ‘memoir’ on becoming a mother had been such a fascinating read because it was so bold in the sense that she had not pulled any punches about the reality of pregnancy, childbirth and early motherhood.  But also, I couldn’t wait to read the book because I have been through (several) moments where I have wondered – would I be better off alone, without my partner – would I be ‘freer’ – to parent and manage the day-to-day as I wished, without compromise and sometimes ‘giving in’? Continue reading “Aftermath – Marriage and the Feminist”

Modern Girlhoods: A GEA Seedcorn Event

‘Great papers, lots of interesting people and plenty of opportunity for important dialogue’

‘I was totally blown away by Wednesday. Best conference I’ve ever been to, especially the way that the conversations just got more and more interesting as the day went on’

The 8th February 2012 saw another exciting GEA seedcorn event on the theme of Modern Girlhoods. This day seminar was well attended with over 50 participants from Brunel, across the UK and further afield. Continue reading “Modern Girlhoods: A GEA Seedcorn Event”

So Many Feminisms: An English Teacher’s Perspective

High school English teacher Marie Kleiderlein examines her upbringing and experience in the field of social services in order to explain her personal affiliation with various feminisms. She also explores ways that her tenure as a teacher has shaped her thinking about feminism and education. She identifies areas of interest for further research regarding feminist theory.

Continue reading “So Many Feminisms: An English Teacher’s Perspective”