Introduction: Why “Feminism”? Why Now?

Rethinking Feminism in Early Modern Studies brings together leading scholars in the field of early modern studies to discuss the present state and future possibilities of feminist criticism and theory. This volume responds to current scholarly and political anxieties that feminist criticism is in a state of decline and crisis by meditating upon what it means to do feminist work in early modern studies at this historical juncture. It demonstrates how studies of early modern literature, history, and culture can contribute to a rethinking of feminist aims, methods, and objects of study, even as it can push us to think more carefully about what “feminism” means. In doing so, it also shows why studies of race, sexuality, religious and national identities, material history, and social class are essential parts of, not mere adjuncts or additions to, any feminist endeavor. Below, we discuss the volume’s overarching aims in greater detail before describing its organization and content.