Year of Graduation
2025
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
MFA: Playwriting
Directing Professor
Dr. Wendy-Marie Martin
Abstract
This thesis presents the original play "Fat Feminists" alongside a critical reflection exploring the intersection between feminist theory and lived experience. The play depicts two friends confronting their 50th birthdays in a society that has historically valued them primarily for youth and beauty. Through their journey, the work examines how women navigate the terrain of aging in a culture that continues to prioritize female appearance despite decades of feminist progress.
The accompanying critical paper interrogates the disconnection between feminist theoretical ideals and everyday reality, drawing particularly on bell hooks' "Feminism is for Everybody" to frame the discussion. The paper traces my development as a playwright in parallel with the evolution of the play itself, documenting how my search for authentic artistic voice mirrors the protagonists' quest to redefine their power beyond conventional beauty standards.
By juxtaposing dramatic narrative with scholarly analysis, this thesis contributes to ongoing conversations about embodied feminism, aging, female friendship, and the challenges of living feminist values in contemporary society. It ultimately argues that the hypocrisies and contradictions women navigate are not failures of feminism but rather evidence of its continuing necessity.
Recommended Citation
Trowell, Ami and Trowell, Ami C., "Fat Feminists" (2025). Playwriting (MFA) Theses, Hollins University. 17.
https://digitalcommons.hollins.edu/playwritingtheses/17
Contact Information
atrowell@yahoo.com
Purpose Statement
The purpose of the MFA in Playwriting thesis is to provide a definitive record of student progress upon completion of the degree. This text will not reflect any revisions to the play made after degree completion. For the most current version of the play, or for licensing information, please contact the author and/or the Hollins Playwriting Department.