Hannah Dawson

Hannah Dawson, editor of The Penguin Book of Feminist Writing, discusses Mary Wollstonecraft's book 'A Vindication of the Rights of Woman'. They explore her beliefs on education, independence, and the patriarchy, as well as her personal struggles. The chapter also delves into Wollstonecraft's life, her works on women's rights and freedom, and her perspectives on education and self-government. They discuss the theory of arbitrary power and its relation to unfreedom, Wollstonecraft's philosophy on liberty and equality, and her views on deconstructing sex and gender.

Minna Salami, a feminist author and social critic known for her provocative works, joins historian Hannah Dawson to delve into the complexities of African feminism. They discuss the unique challenges African women face, emphasizing the need for an inclusive and culturally sensitive definition of feminism. The conversation highlights themes of identity, power, and patriarchy, while advocating for a new lexicon that captures African experiences. Through personal narratives and historical insights, they explore how harmony feminism can coexist with traditional values and modern struggles.

Acclaimed writer Olivia Laing, known for her explorations of personal paradise, discusses her latest work, *The Garden Against Time*, which delves into the emotional and philosophical dimensions of gardening. Joined by historian Hannah Dawson, they explore gardens as dual symbols of beauty and power, addressing social inequalities tied to green spaces. The therapeutic benefits of gardening are highlighted, alongside reflections on environmental stewardship and the need for renewal in both personal and political contexts. Their conversation reveals gardens as sites of hope amidst societal challenges.

In this insightful discussion, historian Hannah Dawson, an expert on feminist thought, is joined by literary critic Merve Emre. They explore the impressive six-century journey of feminist writing, from Christine de Pizan's visionary works to the empowering messages of lesser-known figures like Qiu Jin. The conversation dives into the complexities of curating feminist anthologies, challenges in the beauty industry, and the ongoing evolution of feminist theory. They advocate for inclusivity in literary representation and confront the dual burdens of activism and societal expectations on women.

Hannah Dawson, a Senior Lecturer in the History of Ideas, Mark Goldie, a Professor Emeritus of Intellectual History, and Teresa Bejan, an Associate Professor of Political Theory, explore the groundbreaking work of Mary Astell, the first English feminist. They discuss her advocacy for women's education and rights, critiquing the hypocrisy of Enlightenment thinkers. The conversation highlights Astell's philosophical heritage, her radical views on marriage, and how her ideas resonate with modern feminist thought.