An Outline of Feministic Perspectives and Radical Feminism in Manju Kapur’s Custody

Abstract

Radical Feminism is an ideology that emphasizes the patriarchal underpinnings of gender inequality, particularly the social supremacy of women over men. It advocates for significant changes in contemporary society’s structure, and while it lacks a singular or cohesive theoretical or political theory, it does maintain a consistent position on males. This article discusses perspectives of radical feminism in Manju Kapur’s eminent novel Custody. It also examines the concept of a new woman, marital discord, sexual liberation, and self-satisfaction. Manju Kapur in Custody uses two female protagonists, Shagun and Ishita, to emphasise two important components of feminist perspectives: adultery and infertility. Motherhood is viewed as a patriarchal institution that ensures the subjugation of women through their custody in married households.