THE BURDEN OF WOMANHOOD: EXPLORING GENDERED TRAUMA IN MORRISON'S THE BLUEST EYE

Abstract

This essay explores the novel The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison (1970) as analyzed through the principled angle of Critical Race Theory with special focus on the combination of the concepts of race and gender in determining the lives of Black female characters. Although the racial aspect of the novel was extensively analyzed, the present study makes sure to highlight the importance of the aspect of gender-based trauma as a crucial component of life among Morrison characters. The qualitative analysis of the text shows that the oppressive system and ideologies of patriarchal society are intertwined and impose their effects: Black women are dehumanized and marginalized, especially by the image of PecoEtas Breedlove and other women presented in the book. The discussion proves that Morrison criticizes not only standards of white beauty but also intra-racial gender relations, creating a strong story about psychological disintegration and loss of essence. Such intersectional reading further adds to the more subtle interpretation of African American literature and the emphasis behind the necessity of the context of forms of literary trauma.