Sheila Rowbotham Boeken

Set against the backdrop of the First World War, this intense and claustrophobic play explores the harrowing experience of an innocent woman subjected to a show trial. The narrative delves into themes of injustice and societal pressure, capturing the tension and emotional turmoil of the characters involved. As the trial unfolds, it reveals the dark undercurrents of a society grappling with fear and paranoia, ultimately questioning the nature of truth and morality in times of conflict.

The narrative follows Sheila Rowbotham's transformation from a rebellious teenager at a Methodist boarding school to a prominent political activist by the end of the 1960s. As she immerses herself in existential philosophy and yearns for Paris, she evolves into a key figure in the women's liberation movement, planning the first conference in Britain and discovering her voice as a writer. This journey highlights her personal growth and the broader societal changes of the era.

From the 1880s to the 1920s, a profound social awakening among women extended the possibilities of change far beyond the struggle for the vote. Amid the growth of globalized trade, mass production, immigration and urban slums, American and British women broke with custom and prejudice. Taking off corsets, forming free unions, living communally, buying ethically, joining trade unions, doing social work in settlements, these “dreamers of a new day” challenged ideas about sexuality, mothering, housework, the economy and citizenship. Drawing on a wealth of research, Sheila Rowbotham has written a groundbreaking new history that shows how women created much of the fabric of modern life. These innovative dreamers raised questions that remain at the forefront of our twenty-first-century lives.

The book offers a historical overview of women's movements from the late eighteenth century to 1992, exploring the economic, social, and political ideas that motivated women to unite. It highlights the diverse activism occurring not just in Europe and North America, but also in the Third World, showcasing the global impact of these movements.

The 1980s marked a tumultuous period under Margaret Thatcher's Conservative government, which aggressively targeted leftist movements and severely impacted the working class. This era saw significant challenges for various marginalized groups, facing heightened discrimination and economic disruption. The narrative explores the struggles and resilience of those affected, highlighting the broader social and political implications of Thatcher's policies during this transformative decade.

Exploring the evolution of second-wave feminism into its third decade, this book delves into the significant changes and challenges faced by the movement. It examines the impact of societal shifts, the emergence of new feminist voices, and the ongoing struggle for gender equality. Through a critical lens, it highlights the achievements and setbacks of feminist activism, offering insights into contemporary issues and the future direction of the movement.

A personal history of life, love and women's liberation