The Feminism and
Femininity of Ann Veronica in H. G. Wells’ Ann Veronica
Liem Satya Limanta
H. G. Wells’ Ann Veronica
structurally seems to be divided into two parts: the first deals with Ann
Veronica’s struggle to get equality with men and freedom in most aspects of
life, such as in politics, economics, education, and sexuality; the second
describes must the other side of her individuality which she cannot deny,
namely her femininity, such as her crave for love, marriage, maternity, and
beauty. H. G. Wells describes vividly the two elements in Ann Veronica,
feminism and femininity. As a feminist, Ann Veronica rebelled against her
authoritative Victorian father, who regarded women as men’s property to be
protected from the harsh world outside. On the other side, Ann could not deny
her being a woman after she fell in love. Her femininity from the second half
of the novel then is explored. Although the novel ends with the depiction of
the domestic life of Ann Veronica, it does not mean that the feminism is gone
altogether. The key point is that the family life Ann chooses as a ‘submissive’
wife and good mother is her choice. It is very different if it is forced to her
to do. Thus, this novel depicts both sides of Ann
Veronica, her feminism and her femininity.
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Limanta, L. S. (2002). The feminism and femininity of Ann Veronica
in H.G. Wells’ Ann Veronica. K@ta, 4(1),
8-16.
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