Feminist Representation of the 1960’s and 1970’s American Society in Oleanna

Abstract

During 1960s and 1970s America faced the great shift in its culture, society and politics. This dissertation mainly focuses on the impact of changed culture upon then American society, through the major characters, John and Carol who represent the society and the people living in that period. The rise in capitalism and individualism, extreme feminism and the change in pedagogy were seen in the contemporary society which can be seen in Oleanna. The two characters, John and carol have been the victim of the new ethos that arouse in the contemporary American society where John had to face his downfall while Carol had transformed herself into an immoral being, thus, this proves the then American society led to failure due to the practice of individualism and capitalism. Borrowing the ideas from Michel Foucault “New Historicism”, this thesis brings out the inner truth about that period where people had changed their views about themselves and also towards others.