Exploring Patriarchal Violence in Hoover’s It Ends with Us Through Radical Feminist Lens

Abstract

Romantic relationship is frequently considered as a bond of love, respect and mutual understanding. However, sometime it becomes harmful and abusive in patriarchal society that considers men as superior. The current study selects the radical feminist lens of Catherine MacKinnon on the text of It Ends With Us by Hoover. She argues that male dominance and control is systemic and sexualized. She believes that such ideas are used for oppression and control to subjugate women. The study is qualitative in nature and it follows Catherine Belsy’s model of textual analysis. The study reveals the oppression of Lily Bloom and the dominance of the character Ryle Kincaid. Moreover, the study analyzes the transformation of romantic relationships into the abusive relationship shaped by patriarchal norms that normalizes blind devotion as the main feature of romantic relationship. By analyzing Ryle’s character, the research exposes men’s possessiveness and violence as part of intimate relationship, trapping Lily in cycles of abuse. The study is relevant to the real life abusive case of Asma Aziz through back in 2019. The findings reveal the implicit ways through which patriarchal society justifies abuse in relationship. In addition the study also concludes that abuse is not just about one individual rather it is a part of larger system which uses various pattern such as fake apologies, emotional blackmail, and society’s silence which keep women trapped in control. It is recommended for future researchers to explore the techniques of patriarchal violence towards men in society.