| Abstract: | This paper argues the value of gender relations to the construction of theoretical perspectives in rural geography. It outlines very briefly recent developments in the study of feminist geography, drawing attention to ongoing debate concerning the nature and importance of patriarchy. In doing so it stresses the need to look beyond the economic significance of women's activities and at the interconnectivity of production and reproduction. The paper then moves on to a discussion of women's domestic role within rural society, looking specifically at the way in which this role, and women's place in the rural community, both reinforces and is reinforced by aspects of the dominant rural ideology. The conclusions reached suggest that the characteristics of rural areas, particularly their size, remoteness and lack of resources, together with the strength and orientation of the rural ideology, have a unique influence on both gender role and gender relations. |
