The English department celebrated Women’s History Month with a literature reading presentation put on by Sigma Tau Delta, the international English society.
Students and professors in the English department were asked to share excerpts and pieces of literature either by a female author or pieces that explore themes of femininity and womanhood.
Works such as “Phenomenal Woman” by Maya Angelou, “Because I Could Not Stop for Death” by Emily Dickinson, and an excerpt from “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen were shared. Students listened as their peers and professors shared their chosen pieces, honoring the many creative women who have helped shape literature.
“Historically, female authors often go underrecognized and just not as celebrated as their male counterparts,” said Sigma Tau Delta president-elect Hailey Acalthie, a junior secondary ELA education major from Daphne, Alabama. “Over the years, we have achieved a greater appreciation, but there’s still so much to be recognized that has yet to.”
Sigma Tau Delta holds literature readings frequently; some, like this one, have themes of inclusion for literature from marginalized communities. In February, the theme was centered around Black History Month.
“A lot of the time, female characters that are written by men are so flat and have no authenticity to them,” said vice president-elect Taylor Key, a junior English major from Huntsville, Alabama. “It’s reflective of the times.
“I love it when we can listen to a female author’s perspective. We get boxed into stereotypes so often, even the pieces we read today were so nuanced and varied. I just really appreciate when we get to do something like this.”
For some students and professors, these events are a chance to introduce a greater love of reading to a larger audience.
“Events like this are meant to encourage an appreciation for literature,” said Ben Robertson, an English professor. “While this event is for adults, it’s important to have events such as these starting in grade school, try to get kids to be interested in this sort of thing and maybe even start to write themselves!”
To stay up-to-date on Sigma Tau Delta’s events, visit their Instagram @troysigmataudelta.
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