In the realm of feminist literature, few names resonate as powerfully as Mary Astell and Virginia Woolf. These two pioneering writers, separated by centuries, find themselves in an afterlife setting in Shelagh Stephenson's comedic play, 'Astell and Woolf'. The stage is set in a panelled room, a place of limbo, where these forgotten women are trapped, awaiting their fate. The play is a delightful and thought-provoking exploration of their lives, their struggles, and their enduring impact on the feminist movement. It's a tale of two women, divided by time and circumstance, yet united by their shared experiences as women writers and their unwavering determination to be heard.
Astell, played by Phillippa Wilson, is a formal and starchy figure, shackled to a rope, symbolizing her constraints as a woman in a male-dominated society. She is England's first feminist, known for her treatise 'A Serious Proposal to the Ladies', advocating for women's education. Yet, here she is, in this afterlife, knitting, a task she is not known for. This irony is not lost on the audience, as it reflects the paradox of a woman's place in history. Woolf, on the other hand, is expansive and lithe, played by Tessa Parr, and her place in the literary canon is assured. She is free to roam, a stark contrast to Astell's constraints. Their differences are emphasized by their contrasting attitudes towards religion, science, and the passage of time.
What makes this play particularly fascinating is the way it highlights the shared experiences of these two women, despite their vastly different backgrounds. Both women were independent-minded, rejected patriarchy, and loved a good laugh. They also shared a late-developing taste for sherry, adding a touch of humor to their otherwise serious lives. The play's wit and conversational tone keep the audience engaged, as the women's banter skips along, covering topics ranging from brisk and silly to impassioned. However, the underlying urgency is slow to reveal itself, as the direction of travel is not immediately apparent.
One thing that immediately stands out is the way the play narrows down the 'devil' to domineering men. This is a common theme in feminist literature, where women are often silenced and abused by those in power. Yet, the play also highlights the progress that has been made, the battles still to be won, and the sacrifices made by feminist pioneers. It is a reminder that the fight for gender equality is ongoing, and that the work of these early feminists is still relevant today.
In my opinion, the play's strength lies in its ability to connect the past and present. By comparing notes across the centuries, Stephenson identifies points of progress and the sacrifices made by feminist pioneers. This raises a deeper question: how can we ensure that the work of these early feminists is not forgotten again? The play serves as a reminder that the fight for gender equality is an ongoing process, and that the work of these pioneering women is still relevant and necessary.
From my perspective, the play is a testament to the enduring power of feminist literature. It is a reminder that women's voices have always been important, and that their stories deserve to be told. It is also a call to action, urging us to continue the fight for gender equality and to ensure that the work of these early feminists is not forgotten again. The play is a delightful and thought-provoking exploration of the lives of two pioneering women, and it is a must-see for anyone interested in feminist literature and the ongoing struggle for gender equality.
