Honors Theses
Date of Award
2003
Document Type
Undergraduate Thesis
Department
English
First Advisor
Natalie Schroeder
Relational Format
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
Through literary works and life experiences and in an effort to dispel negative images, an unrealistic image of a strong black woman has been presented to society. As a black woman surrounded by black women who have attempted to personify this superwoman image, and more importantly as a black woman who has been encouraged to adopt this image, I have done research to discover if this woman truly exists. I have read a number of literary works that span over the entire twentieth century, examined cultural and psychological studies relevant to the black woman. I also did research on the adversities and stressors of black women. Upon examination of this information I have found that the image of the strong black woman is truly that—an image. This superficial character is expected to be a supermother, superlover, superfriend, supersister—an all around superwoman. Even in fiction, the most ideal character is incapable of completing all of these tasks. In an effort to fulfill this image, the black woman tends to forget her own abilities and limitations. Though the black woman has conquered and overcome many adversities, she has yet to disassociate herself by choice, if this is her choice, from this image. Until society, especially black women, begin to accept that they are not and do not have to be superhuman, they will constantly be regarded as infallible and never be allowed to falter or even to choose a different path.
Recommended Citation
Montgomery, Tamika Renee, "Strong Black Woman: An Examination of Cultural Images of Black Women" (2003). Honors Theses. 2072.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/2072
Accessibility Status
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