A comparison of the image of women in the 20 th and 21 st century

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to analyse the role of women in the literature of the last two centuries, making special mention of the erotic interactions. In this study, we will try to compare the image of women portrayed in the literature of the 20 th and 21 st century by analysing different excerpts of the books selected. Hence, an explanation will be provided concerning the evolution of the role of women in literature, placing special emphasis on literary works of this period. The research will be principally based on the examination of the novels The Tropic of Cancer (1934) written by Henry Miller and Fifty Shades of Grey (2011) by E.L. James, which will allow us to contrast and compare the representation of women and their general role in the sexual scenes analysed. Finally, the results obtained will show that women have played a significant role in the novel of the 21 st century. Moreover, the intercourses analysed show a more empowered image of women in the literature of the present century.