Representation of Women Through Centuries: An Analysis of Select Articles from the Path breaking Malayalam Women’s Magazines, Mahilaratnam(1916)and Sahodari(1925).

Abstract

The 21st century shows progressive spirit in many aspects. However, the representation of women can hardly be considered as an area which has shown much progress. Compared to 20^th-century iterations, they show a steady decline.  The Malayalam women’s magazines which flourished towards the end of 19^th century and early 20^th century showed a promising phase in the education and development of women. The paper intends to show this contrast by a close analysis of some works from this period. In this paper, I analyze select articles from the Malayalam magazines Mahilaratnam(1916)andSahodari(1925).I will be exploring an Advertisement, a Matrimonial Notice, and an article titled Sthreekalude Abhinyuathi(Women Empowerment) by Mrs. C. Jacob from the magazine Mahilaratnam (1916)and three articles titled Streedharmam(Women’s Duty)by K.Ayyappan, Grihanayikakalude Vidhyabhyasam(Education of Housewives)by N.Kumaran,and Sthreekalum Swathanthryabodhavum(Women and their sense of Freedom)by K.C.Naryanan from the magazine Sahodari(1925).