Bretag, Tracey2018-03-272018-03-271999http://hdl.handle.net/2440/111278This thesis explores the way that feminist theory and fiction have used the model of the "Good Mother" as a starting point to re-theorise and re-imagine maternity. The second part of the thesis presents "transgressing mothers" who resist the binaries of motherhood ideology and ultimately redefine motherhood on their own terms. The aim is to contribute to a process of social change wherein the work of mothering, including the early work of pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding, along with the long-term work of raising a child to adulthood, will be re-evaluated and revalued.enFeminist criticism; Literature -- Women authors -- History and criticism; Literature -- 20th century -- History and criticism; Motherhood in literatureTheses