Simone de Beauvoir's "The Second Sex"

Simone de Beauvoir's "The Second Sex" is a foundational feminist work that analyzes how society has historically marginalized women, portraying them as the "Other" in relation to men. She explores how cultural, social, and economic forces shape gender roles, leading women to be seen as dependent or secondary. Beauvoir argues that gender identity is not innate but constructed through socialization, urging women to recognize their own agency and challenge societal expectations. The book encourages understanding gender as a variable, advocating for equality and personal freedom beyond traditional stereotypes.