The Women Who Knew Too Much Hitchcock and Feminist Theory [Hardcover]

Originally published in 1988, The Women Who Knew Too Muchremains a classic work in film theory and feminist criticism. The book consists of a theoretical introduction and analyses of seven important films by Alfred Hitchcock, each of which provides a basis for an analysis of the female spectator as well as of the male spectator. Modleski considers the emotional and psychic investments of men and women in female characters whose stories often undermine the mastery of the cinematic master of suspense. The third edition features an interview with the author by David Greven, in which he and Modleski reflect on how feminist and queer approaches to Hitchcock studies may be brought into dialogue. A teaching guide and discussion questions by Ned Schantz help instructors and students to delve into this seminal work of feminist film theory.

Introduction: Hitchcock, Feminism, andthe Patriarchal Unconscious

1 Rape vs. Mans/laughter: Blackmail
2 Male Hysteria and the Order of Things : Murder!
3 Woman and the Labyrinth: Rebecca
4 The Woman Who Was Known Too Much: Notorious
5 The Master's Dollhouse: RearWindow
6 Femininity by Design: Vertigo
7 Rituals of Defilement: Frenzy
Afterword: Hitchcock'sDaughters(1988)
Afterword: Resurrection of a Hitchcock Daughter(2005)

An Interview with David Greven
A Study Guide by Ned Schantz

The master of suspense meets his match in one of feminist criticisms most lucid voices. Modleskis prose shines with wit and sparks with anger as she uncovers surprising textual investments in femininity without ever losing sight of the real costs of male power. A film studies classic as inviting to new generations as are Hitchcocks films themsell³¹