Works of S. de Beauvoir as an expression of a search for identity Cover Image

L’oeuvre de Simone Beauvoir; la recherche de l’identié
Works of S. de Beauvoir as an expression of a search for identity

Author(s): Anna Ledwina
Subject(s): Literary Texts
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego
Keywords: Simone de Beauvoir; gender identity; existentialism; feminism; French literature

Summary/Abstract: The works of Simone de Beauvoir – an intellectual writer, an icon of feminism, and a representative of existentialism – explore the issues of gender identity and femininity. This article reflects on the writings of the author, which reveal the otherness of a woman who asserts her right to be present in culture. Her works also stress independence and autonomy. Beauvoir’s largely autobiographical texts express a search for identity by a woman with strong social and political commitments, who fought against injustice, intolerance, and wars, defending the rights of women and the human dignity. Through her critique of the bourgeoisie Beauvoir manifested her need for freedom, identified with her occupation. Aware of the limitations attributed to her sex, Beauvoir draws the portrait of a courageous woman with unrestricted identity. These works remain valid even outside the academic discourse owing to their constant emphasis on creation, independence, and individualism as well as revealing exposures. Self-creation provides an interesting perspective on today’s humanities and inspires women’s writing in the 21st century.

  • Issue Year: 2011
  • Issue No: 6
  • Page Range: 93-106
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: French