Dissertations and Theses @ UNI

Availability

Open Access Thesis

Keywords

Rokeẏā, Begama, 1880-1932--Criticism and interpretation; Harper, Frances Ellen Watkins, 1825-1911--Criticism and interpretation; Utopias in literature;

Abstract

This thesis studies the literary texts of two womanist authors, Begum Rokeya and Frances E. W. Harper, who are from different cultural and geographical background. The thesis attempts to uncover how both authors envision feminist utopian safe space for women of their society. Being the representative from the global south, Rokeya elaborates on 19th century social customs such as purdah and zenana to demonstrate sex segregation in her society. Harper, on the other hand, illustrates the social crisis of slavery and racism through her work. Criticizing the social norms that create obstacles for racialized women, both the authors assert the necessity to have a space where marginalized people will be safe. Though both authors have diverse cultural values, their vision of a safe space for their people is analogous. Rokeya envisions a feminist utopian space for her fellow women whereas Harper dreams of an inclusive safe space where men and women of African American heritage will enjoy rights equal to any other races in their society. Both authors envision a place where their peers will be safe from oppression.

Year of Submission

2021

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Department

Department of Languages and Literatures

First Advisor

Julie Husband, Chair, Thesis Committee

Date Original

12-2021

Object Description

1 PDF file (vi, 90 pages)

Language

en

File Format

application/pdf

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