A Radical Feminism Look Into Woman Oppression in John Shors' Beneath a Marble Sky

Abstract

Oppression towards woman presents when the oppressors apply power structured system that considers woman as an object or the other. Considering that such oppression still exists at present, the one described in Beneath a Marble Skyis relevant to discuss. Interestingly, the work portrays the female protagonist fought against the oppressions among the thick patriarchal society in 16th century India even before the awareness of the women's movement. This study aims to find out what kinds of oppression the protagonist experienced, how she tried to free herself and the result of her struggle. This study uses radical feminism theory that accommodates the female protagonist's experience and effort against oppression. The result shows that woman could not easily free from the oppression as long as the oppressors exist and believe in the subordination of woman. It also implies the power of knowledge and intelligence and the need of men and other women's help an oppressed woman free herself. The findings are expected to help women be more critical in perceiving and fighting against oppressions so that they realize that they deserve to be treated equal to men.