Is It Just?: A Classic Feminist Novel - Softcover

Minnie Smith; Jenny Roth; Lori Chambers

Softcover

ISBN 10: 144261157X ISBN 13: 9781442611573

Publisher: University of Toronto Press, 2010

Synopsis

Minnie Smith's (ca. 1874-1933) feminist domestic novel, Is It Just?, is a harsh critique of the injustices perpetuated by male-dominated society and law. Published in 1911, it tells the tragic story of Mary Pierce, who, through the actions of her selfish and lazy husband, loses her land, her social standing, and ultimately her life.

In Is It Just?, the conventions of the domestic novel - episodic presentation, stock characters, contrived plots, and romantic conclusions - illustrate the superiority of female values and argue for expanded social, political, and legal rights for women. A critical introduction by Jenny Roth and Lori Chambers frames Smith's specific references to the laws and social geography of British Columbia, situating the novel in relation to its historic and literary importance. This unique work of domestic literature adds to our limited library of Canadian feminist writings of the first wave.

About this title

About the Authors

Jenny Roth is an assistant professor in the Department of Women's Studies at Lakehead University.


Lori Chambers is a professor in the Department of Gender and Women’s Studies at Lakehead University.

Edition details

• Publisher: University of Toronto Press
• Publication date: 2010
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 144261157X
• ISBN 13: 9781442611573
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 192