Portrayal of women figures in literature has been as old as literature itself. Women images reflected in literature have been generating much curiosity and discussion since the ancient times. In mythology- both the eastern and the western- women have variously been allotted secondary positions. Many folk and mythological traditions of the world have perceived women more as sexual objects rather than real flesh and blood human beings. Consequently, the concept of their rights was quite limited and notion of their freedom was totally blurred. There were many stereotypes associated with the women images of early and medieval literature and the façade that emerged was, by and large, regressive. They could either be all benevolent saints or all annihilating fiends. Many times, they were held responsible for the loss of lives, property, and also for the occurrence of all destructive wars. The Goddesses often utilized their powers to seek revenge. Though the role of woman as a real individual was limited, several times there emerged the figures like Goddesses and angels, haloed very much in divine light, thus providing great power to female characters. Indian literature has a long and diverse history that dates back to ancient times. The representation of women in Indian fiction has evolved significantly over the centuries, reflecting the changing social, cultural, and political contexts of the nation. Understanding the historical perspectives of how women were portrayed in literature can provide valuable insights into the societal attitudes towards women and their roles in different periods.
Classical Era:
The classical era in Indian literature, which encompasses works like the Ramayana and the Mahabharata, laid the foundation for the representation of women characters. Women were often portrayed as idealized figures embodying virtues such as loyalty, chastity, and self-sacrifice. The character of Sita in the Ramayana is a prime example. As the devoted wife of Lord Rama, she exemplified the ideal woman who stood by her husband in times of hardship and faced various trials with unwavering dedication.