The history of female rage is a long and complex one, rooted in the discrimination and oppression that women have faced throughout history. From ancient myths and legends to modern films and literature, the portrayal of female anger and frustration has been a powerful tool for storytelling and character development.
In ancient myths and legends, female rage was often portrayed as a dangerous and destructive force. In Greek mythology, for example, the figure of Medusa was a symbol of the power and danger of female anger. Similarly, in Shakespeare’s play, The Taming of the Shrew, the character of Katherine is tamed through the suppression of her anger and frustration.
Historically, female anger has been viewed as something to be feared and tamed when really, it is a necessary and valid emotion that should be acknowledged and understood.
The portrayal of female rage in modern media serves not only as a tool for character development, it also challenges and subverts harmful stereotypes associated with the angry female archetype. For example, Jennifer’s Body (2009), tells the story of Jennifer, who is possessed by a demon and uses her newfound powers to take revenge on those who wronged her. The movie acts as a commentary on the ways in which society dismisses female anger and offers a powerful female character as a role model.
Another modern example of female rage is Promising Young Woman (2020), which tells the story of a woman who seeks revenge on men who have wronged her and other women. The movie explores the character’s rage stemming from past trauma and also opens up a discussion on rape culture.
Books such as Boy Parts by Eliza Clark and My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh offer narratives that explore how the representation of female rage can be empowering for female audiences. Of course, the concept of female rage is not limited to cisgendered women, as it can apply to transgender women and non-binary individuals as well.
It may seem that revenge fueled by anger is the most common form of plot device used to drive the stories of scorned women, but it makes sense. Rage is a natural response to injustice and oppression, and women have been subjected to both throughout history. From the denial of suffrage to the gender pay gap, women have had to fight for basic rights and equality.
When the media challenges the stereotypes of women being weak and submissive, it shows that female rage can be a powerful force for change and liberation. It isn’t something that should be dampened or dismissed. And it definitely isn’t a bad thing.