Kanan Aghasiyev | Karabuk University (original) (raw)

Papers by Kanan Aghasiyev

Future Visions Journal, 2024

Future Visions Journal, 2024

International Journal of Media, Culture and Literature Volume, 2024

Caryl Churchill's "Owners" is a highly successful play, marking her debut in stage drama when it ... more Caryl Churchill's "Owners" is a highly successful play, marking her debut in stage drama when it premiered at the Theatre Upstairs of the Royal Court in 1972. The play serves as a satirical exploration of Londoners' social lives, featuring two couples representing diverse social backgrounds. Marion and Clegg are property owners, while Lisa and Alec portray impoverished tenants dependent on Marion and Clegg's actions. Written during the transition between the first and second wave of feminism, the play introduces various female characters from traditional and modern perspectives. Marion, the central character, embodies extreme feminism, breaking away from traditional female norms and adopting a masculine demeanour. In contrast, Lisa, another female character, adheres to the traditional role of a domestic housewife, caring for her husband and children, making her and her newborn baby victims of Marion's schemes. The play also introduces three male characters who defy traditional male gender norms. This article delves into how gender norms have evolved through different waves of feminism, starting with an introduction to the playwright, Caryl Churchill. The focus then shifts to Marion's extreme female masculinity before exploring the unique male identities of the three male characters compared to traditional masculine standards, leading to a concluding section.

Academic Journal of History and Idea, 2024

This article's focus is Antiguan American writer Jamaica Kincaid's short story Girl. The story is... more This article's focus is Antiguan American writer Jamaica Kincaid's short story Girl. The story is also known as a poem since it is written in a poetic shape. The story was published by The New York Times for the first time in 1978, and then later it was published in a book named At the Bottom of the River in 1983, alongside many other stories by Kincaid. Girl talks about a relationship between a mother and a daughter in a colonial society. In Girl, readers can see how a mother teaches her daughter about her duties as a woman and a future wife. The piece has always been seen as either a postcolonial or feminist literary piece, rather than being a postcolonial feminist work. However, in this article, I claim that Kincaid's prose poem is a postcolonial feminist literary work that depicts the struggle of women in the colonized Antiguan society. I focus on postcolonial feminist concepts such as subalterns' voices and the concept of women's double colonization by giving related examples from Kincaid's Girl.

JOURNAL OF YOUNG INTELLECTUALS, 2024

The 1958 novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe is the subject of this article. Europeans propa... more The 1958 novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe is the subject of this article. Europeans propagated their own laws and political structure while restricting or outlawing native customs via the use of religion in Africa and many other parts of the world during the time of colonialism. In the novel, African people, specifically, Nigerian Igbo people experience European colonialism. By using postcolonial theory and Homi Bhabha’s concept of hybridity, the article seeks to illustrate all the linguistic, cultural, and religious changes that Igbo people experienced as a result of European colonialism in Africa and Nigeria. The paper will mostly focus on a few instances from the life of the protagonist, Okonkwo, and how he dealt with the changes that the British introduced to the Igbo people. Moreover, it discusses how colonialism affected Igbo culture negatively. At the end of the article, readers will be able to see Homi Bhabha’s concept of hybridity in terms of religion, culture, and language by using examples from the novel and Achebe's life.

A Postcolonial Review on Jamaica Kincaid's Novella Lucy, 2023

This paper examines Jamaica Kincaid's novel "Lucy" within the context of postcolonial literature,... more This paper examines Jamaica Kincaid's novel "Lucy" within the context of postcolonial literature, exploring the profound impact of colonial legacies on the main character, Lucy, and her experiences in a postcolonial world. Written by Jamaica Kincaid, a native of Antigua, the novel delves into the complexities of postcolonial identity, juxtaposing the concepts of independence and freedom. Antigua, as one of the last countries to gain independence in 1981, serves as a backdrop, illustrating the stark contrast between the author's newly adopted home in the United States and her memories of Antigua, marked by a history of suppression and oppression. Lucy, the novel's central character, carries the weight of her colonial past, a burden manifested through her constant reflection on her homeland. As a character who has never resided in a white-dominated society, she grapples with navigating a world replete with stereotypes about individuals of black and brown ethnicity. This essay aims to critically analyse Lucy from a postcolonial perspective, providing specific examples from the novel to illuminate the enduring impact of colonialism on the protagonist's identity and her journey towards self-discovery in a complex postcolonial landscape.

CHALLENGING GENDER ROLES AND PATRIARCHAL SUPREMACY IN JAMAICA KINCAID’S ANNIE JOHN, Dec 31, 2023

Annie John is a feminist novel that depicts female oppression as well as the struggle against gen... more Annie John is a feminist novel that depicts female oppression as well as the struggle against gender discrimination in Antiguan and Caribbean society. Annie, the protagonist, portrays a heroine who is constantly given instructions by both of her parents, her teachers, her doctors, and finally by the entire society. All these people, as expected, have an impact on her female identity. However, as she grows older, she realizes that she does not have to be like everyone else. She can be different, and she does not have to follow in the footsteps of her mother and the other women on the island. Unlike her mother, who is a 'tool' for patriarchy, she realizes that all the laws and do-nots are designed to discriminate against women and praise patriarchal principles in society. The novel's author Jamaica Kincaid attempts to depict a female character who is forced to respect her parents' restrictions while secretly enjoying her freedom. Throughout the novel, Jamaica Kincaid depicts patriarchal domination over women, traditional gender stereotypes and standards, and breaking down old gender norms via the experiences of the protagonist Annie and other female characters.

JOURNAL OF YOUNG INTELLECTUALS, 2024

This review paper explores the diverse array of techniques and themes employed by postmodern poet... more This review paper explores the diverse array of techniques and themes employed by postmodern poets to convey their poetic messages. As an extension of modernism, postmodernism integrates elements from its predecessor while incorporating realistic themes and techniques. Despite its modern and realist inclinations, postmodernism retains traces of romanticism, imbuing its discourse with a multifaceted aesthetic. Poets such as Allan Ginsberg, Robert Lowell, and Charles Bukowski utilize a range of techniques within the realm of postmodernism, including fragmentation, metafiction, intertextuality, randomness, and playfulness, contributing to the richness and complexity of their poetry. By intertwining these techniques, these poets navigate the intricacies of contemporary existence, offering profound insights into the human condition. Furthermore, postmodern poets like Philip Larkin, Sylvia Plath, and Ted Hughes explore a diverse array of themes that mirror the tumultuous landscape of the postmodern era. Themes such as the absence of objective reality, skepticism towards science and historical truths, the aftermath of global conflicts, explorations of psychology, critiques of materialism, and reflections on totalitarianism pervade their works. Through their poetry, these writers confront existential dilemmas and socio-political realities, urging readers to critically engage with the complexities of the contemporary world.

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH International Online Scientific Journal, 2024

Audre Lorde's essay, “Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference (1984)”, is a profou... more Audre Lorde's essay, “Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference (1984)”, is a profound critique within postcolonial feminism, delving into the intricate intersections of privilege, oppression, and identity. She dismantles simplistic binary oppositions in Western feminist discourse, advocating for the recognition of diverse experiences often marginalized within mainstream narratives. Lorde critiques Western feminist scholarship for failing to acknowledge the complexity of women's experiences, particularly those of marginalized groups from Third World countries. She challenges the tendency to homogenize experiences, emphasizing the necessity of embracing difference. Lorde exposes how power dynamics, such as capitalism, imperialism, and globalization, reinforce structures of dominance. Additionally, she underscores the significance of economic empowerment in combating oppression, echoing Virginia Woolf's call for women's financial independence. Ultimately, Lorde urges a re-evaluation of societal structures, advocating for an inclusive and intersectional feminism that acknowledges and values diverse voices, paving the way for transformative social change rooted in solidarity and justice.

Themes of Devil's Disciple, 2024

In The Devil's Disciple, George Bernard Shaw artfully explores the themes of appearance and reali... more In The Devil's Disciple, George Bernard Shaw artfully explores the themes of appearance and reality, hypocrisy, and identity shifting against the backdrop of colonial America during the Revolutionary Era. Through a series of unexpected twists and character transformations, Shaw challenges societal norms and understanding, urging audiences to look beyond surface appearances and confront the hypocrisy inherent in conventional morality. The play's characters, particularly Richard and Anderson, undergo profound shifts in their identities, demonstrating Shaw's belief in the power of individual agency and the potential for personal growth. Through compelling dialogue and vivid imagery, Shaw delivers a timeless message about the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring capacity for personal growth and fulfillment.

Conference Presentations by Kanan Aghasiyev

Hitit Üniversitesi Yayınları | Hitit University Press, 2024

Audre Lorde's essay, Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference (1984), is a profound... more Audre Lorde's essay, Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference (1984), is a profound critique within postcolonial feminism, delving into the intricate intersections of privilege, oppression, and identity. She dismantles simplistic binary oppositions in Western feminist discourse, advocating for the recognition of diverse experiences often marginalized within mainstream narratives. Lorde critiques Western feminist scholarship for failing to acknowledge the complexity of women's experiences, particularly those of marginalized groups from Third World countries. She challenges the tendency to homogenize experiences, emphasizing the necessity of embracing difference. Lorde exposes how power dynamics, such as capitalism, imperialism, and globalization, reinforce structures of dominance. Additionally, she underscores the significance of economic empowerment in combating oppression, echoing Virginia Woolf's call for women's financial independence. Ultimately, Lorde urges a re-evaluation of societal structures, advocating for an inclusive and intersectional feminism that acknowledges and values diverse voices, paving the way for transformative social change rooted in solidarity and justice.

Conference: Erciyes University Faculty of Letters Language, Culture and Literature Student Symposium / Erciyes Üniversitesi Edebiyat Fakültesi Geleneksel Dil, Kültür ve Edebiyat Öğrenci Sempozyumu, 2024

Brenda Cooper's For the Snake of Power is a short story that was published in 2018 in a book by A... more Brenda Cooper's For the Snake of Power is a short story that was published in 2018 in a book by Arizona University named The Weight of Light: A Collection of Solar Futures alongside many other stories focused on solar fiction. Story For the Snake of Power, situated in Phoenix, Arizona, envisions the construction of an enormous snake-like structure covering the city's canals. This serpent is adorned with solar panels, providing electricity for all residents, while its shadow offers relief from the relentless desert heat, enabling the rapidly expanding population to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities.

Thesis Chapters by Kanan Aghasiyev

Karabuk University , 2024

This thesis examines how Andrea Levy’s The Long Song and Zadie Smith’s Swing Time engage with Pos... more This thesis examines how Andrea Levy’s The Long Song and Zadie Smith’s Swing Time engage with Postcolonial Feminist Theory to portray the lasting impact of colonialism on women of Color. Levy’s The Long Song explores the intersectionality of race, gender, and colonialism through characters like July and Kitty. By highlighting the voices and experiences of Black women within the colonial narrative, Levy challenges Eurocentric and patriarchal perspectives. Through July’s narrative, readers gain insight into the complexities of colonial power dynamics and Black women’s strategies for navigating and resisting oppression. Similarly, Smith’s Swing Time discusses the intersections of race, gender, and identity in the postcolonial context, exemplified by the unnamed protagonist and her unnamed mother. Smith questions the colonial legacy in shaping individual and collective identities. Characters like Hawa and Tracey highlight the lasting impact of colonial ideologies on contemporary society and women of Color’s ongoing resistance. Both novels challenge conventional postcolonial narratives by presenting characters who oppose stereotypes. Despite the melancholy often associated with colonial history, Levy and Smith create engaging characters who navigate identity and oppression with resilience. Through their narratives, the authors shed light on the lasting impact of colonialism on women of Color and contribute to a nuanced understanding of Postcolonial Feminist discourse.

Books by Kanan Aghasiyev

Bridges Publishing Verlag Hans-Jürgen Maurer, 2024

This book examines how Andrea Levy’s The Long Song and Zadie Smith’s Swing Time engage with Postc... more This book examines how Andrea Levy’s The Long Song and Zadie Smith’s Swing Time engage with Postcolonial Feminist Theory to portray the lasting impact of colonialism on women of Color. Levy’s The Long Song explores the intersectionality of race, gender, and colonialism through characters like July and Kitty. By highlighting the voices and experiences of Black women within the colonial narrative, Levy challenges Eurocentric and patriarchal perspectives. Through July’s narrative, readers gain insight into the complexities of colonial power dynamics and Black women’s strategies for navigating and resisting oppression. Similarly, Smith’s Swing Time discusses the intersections of race, gender, and identity in the postcolonial context, exemplified by the unnamed protagonist and her unnamed mother. Smith questions the colonial legacy in shaping individual and collective identities. Characters like Hawa and Tracey highlight the lasting impact of colonial ideologies on contemporary society and women of Color’s ongoing resistance. Both novels challenge conventional postcolonial narratives by presenting characters who oppose stereotypes. Despite the melancholy often associated with colonial history, Levy and Smith create engaging characters who navigate identity and oppression with resilience. Through their narratives, the authors shed light on the lasting impact of colonialism on women of Color and contribute to a nuanced understanding of Postcolonial Feminist discourse.

Future Visions Journal, 2024

Future Visions Journal, 2024

International Journal of Media, Culture and Literature Volume, 2024

Caryl Churchill's "Owners" is a highly successful play, marking her debut in stage drama when it ... more Caryl Churchill's "Owners" is a highly successful play, marking her debut in stage drama when it premiered at the Theatre Upstairs of the Royal Court in 1972. The play serves as a satirical exploration of Londoners' social lives, featuring two couples representing diverse social backgrounds. Marion and Clegg are property owners, while Lisa and Alec portray impoverished tenants dependent on Marion and Clegg's actions. Written during the transition between the first and second wave of feminism, the play introduces various female characters from traditional and modern perspectives. Marion, the central character, embodies extreme feminism, breaking away from traditional female norms and adopting a masculine demeanour. In contrast, Lisa, another female character, adheres to the traditional role of a domestic housewife, caring for her husband and children, making her and her newborn baby victims of Marion's schemes. The play also introduces three male characters who defy traditional male gender norms. This article delves into how gender norms have evolved through different waves of feminism, starting with an introduction to the playwright, Caryl Churchill. The focus then shifts to Marion's extreme female masculinity before exploring the unique male identities of the three male characters compared to traditional masculine standards, leading to a concluding section.

Academic Journal of History and Idea, 2024

This article's focus is Antiguan American writer Jamaica Kincaid's short story Girl. The story is... more This article's focus is Antiguan American writer Jamaica Kincaid's short story Girl. The story is also known as a poem since it is written in a poetic shape. The story was published by The New York Times for the first time in 1978, and then later it was published in a book named At the Bottom of the River in 1983, alongside many other stories by Kincaid. Girl talks about a relationship between a mother and a daughter in a colonial society. In Girl, readers can see how a mother teaches her daughter about her duties as a woman and a future wife. The piece has always been seen as either a postcolonial or feminist literary piece, rather than being a postcolonial feminist work. However, in this article, I claim that Kincaid's prose poem is a postcolonial feminist literary work that depicts the struggle of women in the colonized Antiguan society. I focus on postcolonial feminist concepts such as subalterns' voices and the concept of women's double colonization by giving related examples from Kincaid's Girl.

JOURNAL OF YOUNG INTELLECTUALS, 2024

The 1958 novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe is the subject of this article. Europeans propa... more The 1958 novel Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe is the subject of this article. Europeans propagated their own laws and political structure while restricting or outlawing native customs via the use of religion in Africa and many other parts of the world during the time of colonialism. In the novel, African people, specifically, Nigerian Igbo people experience European colonialism. By using postcolonial theory and Homi Bhabha’s concept of hybridity, the article seeks to illustrate all the linguistic, cultural, and religious changes that Igbo people experienced as a result of European colonialism in Africa and Nigeria. The paper will mostly focus on a few instances from the life of the protagonist, Okonkwo, and how he dealt with the changes that the British introduced to the Igbo people. Moreover, it discusses how colonialism affected Igbo culture negatively. At the end of the article, readers will be able to see Homi Bhabha’s concept of hybridity in terms of religion, culture, and language by using examples from the novel and Achebe's life.

A Postcolonial Review on Jamaica Kincaid's Novella Lucy, 2023

This paper examines Jamaica Kincaid's novel "Lucy" within the context of postcolonial literature,... more This paper examines Jamaica Kincaid's novel "Lucy" within the context of postcolonial literature, exploring the profound impact of colonial legacies on the main character, Lucy, and her experiences in a postcolonial world. Written by Jamaica Kincaid, a native of Antigua, the novel delves into the complexities of postcolonial identity, juxtaposing the concepts of independence and freedom. Antigua, as one of the last countries to gain independence in 1981, serves as a backdrop, illustrating the stark contrast between the author's newly adopted home in the United States and her memories of Antigua, marked by a history of suppression and oppression. Lucy, the novel's central character, carries the weight of her colonial past, a burden manifested through her constant reflection on her homeland. As a character who has never resided in a white-dominated society, she grapples with navigating a world replete with stereotypes about individuals of black and brown ethnicity. This essay aims to critically analyse Lucy from a postcolonial perspective, providing specific examples from the novel to illuminate the enduring impact of colonialism on the protagonist's identity and her journey towards self-discovery in a complex postcolonial landscape.

CHALLENGING GENDER ROLES AND PATRIARCHAL SUPREMACY IN JAMAICA KINCAID’S ANNIE JOHN, Dec 31, 2023

Annie John is a feminist novel that depicts female oppression as well as the struggle against gen... more Annie John is a feminist novel that depicts female oppression as well as the struggle against gender discrimination in Antiguan and Caribbean society. Annie, the protagonist, portrays a heroine who is constantly given instructions by both of her parents, her teachers, her doctors, and finally by the entire society. All these people, as expected, have an impact on her female identity. However, as she grows older, she realizes that she does not have to be like everyone else. She can be different, and she does not have to follow in the footsteps of her mother and the other women on the island. Unlike her mother, who is a 'tool' for patriarchy, she realizes that all the laws and do-nots are designed to discriminate against women and praise patriarchal principles in society. The novel's author Jamaica Kincaid attempts to depict a female character who is forced to respect her parents' restrictions while secretly enjoying her freedom. Throughout the novel, Jamaica Kincaid depicts patriarchal domination over women, traditional gender stereotypes and standards, and breaking down old gender norms via the experiences of the protagonist Annie and other female characters.

JOURNAL OF YOUNG INTELLECTUALS, 2024

This review paper explores the diverse array of techniques and themes employed by postmodern poet... more This review paper explores the diverse array of techniques and themes employed by postmodern poets to convey their poetic messages. As an extension of modernism, postmodernism integrates elements from its predecessor while incorporating realistic themes and techniques. Despite its modern and realist inclinations, postmodernism retains traces of romanticism, imbuing its discourse with a multifaceted aesthetic. Poets such as Allan Ginsberg, Robert Lowell, and Charles Bukowski utilize a range of techniques within the realm of postmodernism, including fragmentation, metafiction, intertextuality, randomness, and playfulness, contributing to the richness and complexity of their poetry. By intertwining these techniques, these poets navigate the intricacies of contemporary existence, offering profound insights into the human condition. Furthermore, postmodern poets like Philip Larkin, Sylvia Plath, and Ted Hughes explore a diverse array of themes that mirror the tumultuous landscape of the postmodern era. Themes such as the absence of objective reality, skepticism towards science and historical truths, the aftermath of global conflicts, explorations of psychology, critiques of materialism, and reflections on totalitarianism pervade their works. Through their poetry, these writers confront existential dilemmas and socio-political realities, urging readers to critically engage with the complexities of the contemporary world.

SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH International Online Scientific Journal, 2024

Audre Lorde's essay, “Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference (1984)”, is a profou... more Audre Lorde's essay, “Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference (1984)”, is a profound critique within postcolonial feminism, delving into the intricate intersections of privilege, oppression, and identity. She dismantles simplistic binary oppositions in Western feminist discourse, advocating for the recognition of diverse experiences often marginalized within mainstream narratives. Lorde critiques Western feminist scholarship for failing to acknowledge the complexity of women's experiences, particularly those of marginalized groups from Third World countries. She challenges the tendency to homogenize experiences, emphasizing the necessity of embracing difference. Lorde exposes how power dynamics, such as capitalism, imperialism, and globalization, reinforce structures of dominance. Additionally, she underscores the significance of economic empowerment in combating oppression, echoing Virginia Woolf's call for women's financial independence. Ultimately, Lorde urges a re-evaluation of societal structures, advocating for an inclusive and intersectional feminism that acknowledges and values diverse voices, paving the way for transformative social change rooted in solidarity and justice.

Themes of Devil's Disciple, 2024

In The Devil's Disciple, George Bernard Shaw artfully explores the themes of appearance and reali... more In The Devil's Disciple, George Bernard Shaw artfully explores the themes of appearance and reality, hypocrisy, and identity shifting against the backdrop of colonial America during the Revolutionary Era. Through a series of unexpected twists and character transformations, Shaw challenges societal norms and understanding, urging audiences to look beyond surface appearances and confront the hypocrisy inherent in conventional morality. The play's characters, particularly Richard and Anderson, undergo profound shifts in their identities, demonstrating Shaw's belief in the power of individual agency and the potential for personal growth. Through compelling dialogue and vivid imagery, Shaw delivers a timeless message about the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring capacity for personal growth and fulfillment.

Hitit Üniversitesi Yayınları | Hitit University Press, 2024

Audre Lorde's essay, Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference (1984), is a profound... more Audre Lorde's essay, Age, Race, Class, and Sex: Women Redefining Difference (1984), is a profound critique within postcolonial feminism, delving into the intricate intersections of privilege, oppression, and identity. She dismantles simplistic binary oppositions in Western feminist discourse, advocating for the recognition of diverse experiences often marginalized within mainstream narratives. Lorde critiques Western feminist scholarship for failing to acknowledge the complexity of women's experiences, particularly those of marginalized groups from Third World countries. She challenges the tendency to homogenize experiences, emphasizing the necessity of embracing difference. Lorde exposes how power dynamics, such as capitalism, imperialism, and globalization, reinforce structures of dominance. Additionally, she underscores the significance of economic empowerment in combating oppression, echoing Virginia Woolf's call for women's financial independence. Ultimately, Lorde urges a re-evaluation of societal structures, advocating for an inclusive and intersectional feminism that acknowledges and values diverse voices, paving the way for transformative social change rooted in solidarity and justice.

Conference: Erciyes University Faculty of Letters Language, Culture and Literature Student Symposium / Erciyes Üniversitesi Edebiyat Fakültesi Geleneksel Dil, Kültür ve Edebiyat Öğrenci Sempozyumu, 2024

Brenda Cooper's For the Snake of Power is a short story that was published in 2018 in a book by A... more Brenda Cooper's For the Snake of Power is a short story that was published in 2018 in a book by Arizona University named The Weight of Light: A Collection of Solar Futures alongside many other stories focused on solar fiction. Story For the Snake of Power, situated in Phoenix, Arizona, envisions the construction of an enormous snake-like structure covering the city's canals. This serpent is adorned with solar panels, providing electricity for all residents, while its shadow offers relief from the relentless desert heat, enabling the rapidly expanding population to comfortably enjoy outdoor activities.

Karabuk University , 2024

This thesis examines how Andrea Levy’s The Long Song and Zadie Smith’s Swing Time engage with Pos... more This thesis examines how Andrea Levy’s The Long Song and Zadie Smith’s Swing Time engage with Postcolonial Feminist Theory to portray the lasting impact of colonialism on women of Color. Levy’s The Long Song explores the intersectionality of race, gender, and colonialism through characters like July and Kitty. By highlighting the voices and experiences of Black women within the colonial narrative, Levy challenges Eurocentric and patriarchal perspectives. Through July’s narrative, readers gain insight into the complexities of colonial power dynamics and Black women’s strategies for navigating and resisting oppression. Similarly, Smith’s Swing Time discusses the intersections of race, gender, and identity in the postcolonial context, exemplified by the unnamed protagonist and her unnamed mother. Smith questions the colonial legacy in shaping individual and collective identities. Characters like Hawa and Tracey highlight the lasting impact of colonial ideologies on contemporary society and women of Color’s ongoing resistance. Both novels challenge conventional postcolonial narratives by presenting characters who oppose stereotypes. Despite the melancholy often associated with colonial history, Levy and Smith create engaging characters who navigate identity and oppression with resilience. Through their narratives, the authors shed light on the lasting impact of colonialism on women of Color and contribute to a nuanced understanding of Postcolonial Feminist discourse.

Bridges Publishing Verlag Hans-Jürgen Maurer, 2024

This book examines how Andrea Levy’s The Long Song and Zadie Smith’s Swing Time engage with Postc... more This book examines how Andrea Levy’s The Long Song and Zadie Smith’s Swing Time engage with Postcolonial Feminist Theory to portray the lasting impact of colonialism on women of Color. Levy’s The Long Song explores the intersectionality of race, gender, and colonialism through characters like July and Kitty. By highlighting the voices and experiences of Black women within the colonial narrative, Levy challenges Eurocentric and patriarchal perspectives. Through July’s narrative, readers gain insight into the complexities of colonial power dynamics and Black women’s strategies for navigating and resisting oppression. Similarly, Smith’s Swing Time discusses the intersections of race, gender, and identity in the postcolonial context, exemplified by the unnamed protagonist and her unnamed mother. Smith questions the colonial legacy in shaping individual and collective identities. Characters like Hawa and Tracey highlight the lasting impact of colonial ideologies on contemporary society and women of Color’s ongoing resistance. Both novels challenge conventional postcolonial narratives by presenting characters who oppose stereotypes. Despite the melancholy often associated with colonial history, Levy and Smith create engaging characters who navigate identity and oppression with resilience. Through their narratives, the authors shed light on the lasting impact of colonialism on women of Color and contribute to a nuanced understanding of Postcolonial Feminist discourse.