The Second Sex

In your own words, define the Other. Who is usually the Other? How does a group become an Other?

In the Introduction, Simone de Beauvoir discusses “existentialist morality” (16). Define “existentialist morality” in your own words based on Beauvoir’s description. How does this morality fit with Beauvoir’s description of women’s roles and female liberation?

Throughout The Second Sex, Simone de Beauvoir often cites and quotes the works of philosophers and writers or case studies of individuals to support her argument. Choose one of these quotes. Why do you think Beauvoir chose it? How does the quote you chose support her arguments?

Simone de Beauvoir gives an ambitious survey of the history of women. How does her discussion of history support her idea of women as the Other? Give at least three specific examples.

Since Simone de Beauvoir wrote The Second Sex, there have been significant social changes, including the legalization of abortion in many countries, the movement for same-sex marriage, and the growing acceptance of trans rights. How do you think the arguments made in The Second Sex hold up in light of these changes?

Discuss how Simone de Beauvoir describes the relationship between a wife and a husband. How is their marriage affected by femininity? In her view, is there any way to have a good marriage or at least a good romantic relationship between a man and a woman?

One of the more controversial statements that Simone de Beauvoir makes in The Second Sex is that there has never been a female Vincent von Gogh or Franz Kafka (750). Do you believe she has a point? Why or why not?

Toward the end of The Second Sex, Simone de Beauvoir addresses the argument of opponents of women’s rights that the emancipation of women will cause life to lose its “spice” (764). How does Beauvoir dispute this argument?