Roots, Routes and Fruits: Feminism and Ecofeminism

Abstract

Ecofeminism is the missing link that connects woman and nature, while tracing out the patriarchal structures of exploitation and oppression. This paper searches for the origination of ‘Ecofeminism’ that lies somewhere in the fusion of ‘Feminism’ and ‘Ecology.’ While defining the concept of ‘Feminism’, it explores its different forms along with its chronological order through wave metaphor. Feminism nurtures the sapling of Ecofeminism, and with the passage of time, it turns into a tree that bears fruits of the various forms which can be viewed through different perspectives. It presents roots, routes and fruits that come out of ‘Feminism’ and ‘Ecofeminism.’ Knowing nature leads to knowing woman, and knowing woman, leads to knowing nature. The real emancipation lies in saving the earth and woman from exploitation and oppression.