This essay will focus on two prime theoretical aspects of feminism, namely liberal feminism and lesbian feminism. Both the theories acknowledge the fact that women have long been oppressed by predominant male attitudes and ideas, as well as an essentially patriarchal societal structure. The former theory is reformist in the sense that it seeks to work within the existing system, and wants to modify it in order to ensure women have equal opportunities as men, be they in education, career, or politics. The latter's focus is on giving women their unique sexual identity by challenging the imposition of heterosexuality and giving lesbianism its due recognition.
