Margaret Atwood's 2003 novel, Oryx and Crake, presents a dystopian narrative where planet Earth teeters on the brink of annihilation, with humanity facing extinction and replacement by a genetically modified race. This thesis delves into the feminist discourse embedded within the novel, exploring the ways in which it critiques societal norms and gender inequality. Drawing from the works of renowned feminist theorist Simone de Beauvoir (1908), this study aims to provide a comprehensive feminist reading of Oryx and Crake. The primary objective of this analytical, descriptive, and qualitative study is to investigate the feminist themes and perspectives in the novel by Margaret Atwood. By drawing on Simone de Beauvoir's feminist theories, the study seeks to shed light on how the novel critiques patriarchal structures and the objectification of women, ultimately contributing to the larger discourse on gender equality. The findings of the study reveal that the novel portrays the objectification of women, with the protagonist, Snowman, viewing women as commodities rather than individuals with agency and autonomy, reflecting the broader patriarchal norms prevalent in the novel's society. Atwood critiques patriarchal power structures through the narrative and character interactions, emphasizing the male-dominated society's unfair treatment of women. Incorporating Simone de Beauvoir's feminist theories into the analysis adds depth to the interpretation, demonstrating how her ideas on the "otherness" of women and the societal construction of femininity and masculinity are reflected in the novel's themes. Additionally, the study explores how traditional gender roles are dismantled in the face of a catastrophic event, allowing for a reevaluation of gender and power dynamics, highlighting their fluidity. In conclusion, this study provides a feminist reading of the novel, highlighting its contribution to feminist discourse and the broader conversation on gender equality through a qualitative analysis of themes such as objectification, patriarchal critique, and the influence of Simone de Beauvoir's theories.
