Caliban and the Witch: Women, the Body, and Primitive Accumulation

A seminal work of feminist theory that explores the relationship between women, the body, and the rise of capitalism.

In Caliban and the Witch, Silvia Federici argues that the rise of capitalism was accompanied by a systematic attack on women's bodies and autonomy. She traces this attack back to the European witch-hunts of the 16th and 17th centuries, which she argues were a key moment in the process of primitive accumulation, the violent dispossession of peasants from their land and resources.

Federici shows how the witch-hunts were used to justify the enclosure of common lands, the criminalization of female healers and midwives, and the imposition of a new patriarchal order. She argues that these attacks on women were essential to the development of capitalism, as they created a pool of cheap labor and ensured that women would be subordinate to men.

Caliban and the Witch is a powerful and provocative work of feminist theory that has had a profound impact on our understanding of the relationship between gender, class, and capitalism. It is a must-read for anyone interested in women's history, the history of capitalism, or the struggle for social justice.

Key Themes

• The relationship between women, the body, and capitalism. Federici argues that the rise of capitalism was accompanied by a systematic attack on women's bodies and autonomy. She traces this attack back to the European witch-hunts of the 16th and 17th centuries, which she argues were a key moment in the process of primitive accumulation, the violent dispossession of peasants from their land and resources.
• The witch-hunts as a form of class struggle. Federici argues that the witch-hunts were not simply a product of superstition or misogyny, but were a deliberate attempt by the ruling class to suppress women's power and control over their own bodies. She shows how the witch-hunts were used to justify the enclosure of common lands, the criminalization of female healers and midwives, and the imposition of a new patriarchal order.
• The importance of women's resistance to capitalism. Federici argues that women have played a crucial role in resisting the rise of capitalism. She highlights the role of women in peasant revolts, anti-colonial struggles, and the labor movement. She argues that women's resistance is essential to the struggle for a more just and equitable world.

Why You Should Read Caliban and the Witch

Caliban and the Witch is a powerful and provocative work of feminist theory that has had a profound impact on our understanding of the relationship between gender, class, and capitalism. It is a must-read for anyone interested in women's history, the history of capitalism, or the struggle for social justice.

Here are a few reasons why you should read Caliban and the Witch:

• It is a groundbreaking work of feminist theory. Federici's analysis of the relationship between women, the body, and capitalism is original and insightful. She draws on a wide range of sources, including history, anthropology, and economics, to develop a powerful and persuasive argument.
• It is a powerful indictment of capitalism. Federici shows how capitalism has been built on the exploitation and oppression of women. She argues that the system is inherently patriarchal and that it cannot be reformed. She calls for a radical transformation of society, one that puts women at the center.
• It is a call to action. Federici's book is not just a theoretical analysis of capitalism. It is also a call to action. She argues that women must unite and fight for their liberation. She believes that a better world is possible, but that it will only be achieved through struggle.

If you are interested in women's history, the history of capitalism, or the struggle for social justice, then I highly recommend that you read Caliban and the Witch. It is a powerful and important book that will change the way you think about the world.