Thesis
Motherhood and trauma in contemporary African American novels
Washington State University
Master of Arts (MA), Washington State University
2012
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/2376/100575
Abstract
This thesis examines the interlinked themes of motherhood and trauma in the African American experience as it relates specifically to mother/daughter relationships. Using the works of three African American contemporary authors, Ugly Ways by Tina McElroy Ansa, The Women of Brewster Place by Gloria Naylor, and A Woman’s Place by Marita Golden, I will show how trauma is an unfortunate but common occurrence in the lives of African American daughters who are seeking to find their places in life under the watchful and critical eye of their overbearing mothers. With an emphasis on the effects of slavery in the U.S., I show that the institution of African American motherhood is unlike any other culture. I note that techniques established by mothers during the years of slavery have become a source of viability for African American family that is still highly utilized today. I highlight the African Americans’ use of “other mothers” and their tough love methods among the most unique. Overall, my thesis serves as a stepping point to help readers understand that the cultural differences in African American mothering practices are not a sign of a dysfunction as some critics suggest. Rather it is a demonstration of a connected community, acceptance of its harsh realities and using the necessary methods to overcome and prevent hardships.
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Details
- Title
- Motherhood and trauma in contemporary African American novels
- Creators
- Ebony Renee' Moore
- Contributors
- Aaron Orforlea (Degree Supervisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Washington State University
- Academic Unit
- English, Department of
- Theses and Dissertations
- Master of Arts (MA), Washington State University
- Publisher
- Washington State University; Pullman, Wash. :
- Identifiers
- 99900525071501842
- Language
- English
- Resource Type
- Thesis