Difficult Women: Why Society Still Demonises Women
Meena Kandasamy, Emily Maguire and Natasha Walter, chaired by Jamie Klingler
Women who defy social expectations have been demonised in books throughout history, cast as dangerous, disruptive, or morally suspect. These archetypes endure across centuries, from witches, madwomen, and monsters to the fallen woman, the seductress, and the modern-day ‘difficult’ woman. In this vital conversation, Meena Kandasamy, Emily Maguire and Natasha Walter will trace these narratives from myth, folklore and the gothic tradition through to contemporary culture and the digital world. They will explore why women are still punished for expressing power, anger, ambition and refusal, and how writers are reclaiming these stories to challenge misogynistic tropes and reshape what it means for women to be seen – and heard – on their own terms. Chaired by activist and campaigner Jamie Klingler.