Power, gender, and Identity in “The Captured Woman”: A Foucauldian Feminist Critique

This article explores the intersection of power, patriarchy, and identity in Donald Barthelme’s “The Captured Woman” through a Foucauldian feminist perspective. The story illustrates a patriarchal society where women are subjugated by men and their identities are defined by their relationships with male figures. Indeed, the analysis uncovers the insidious ways in which men shape identity and perpetuate systems of oppression, shedding light on the nuances of gender inequality, subjugation, and the struggle for autonomy within a male-dominated society. The goal of this research is to provide a comprehensive understanding of how these elements interact within the narrative and contribute to wider socio-cultural discourses on gender, power, and identity. The methodology involves a close reading of the text, drawing on Foucauldian concepts of power, as well as feminist theories on patriarchy and identity. In conclusion, Donald Barthelme's “The Captured Woman” portrays a patriarchal society where women are subjugated, controlled, and objectified by men. Overall, this article serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the pervasive nature of patriarchy, highlighting the enduring struggle for autonomy, freedom, and true gender identity in the face of oppressive power structures.

Keywords:

Patriarchy , power , gender , identity , freedom , Foucauldian feminism