Reading Beloved through a feminist lens has allowed me to see each character differently than I would have if I read it through another lens. I have found it very interesting to see the power structure between the men and the women during the time period that it takes place in and how that changes over time. Sethe was a slave who eventually was freed and she went through a long journey to find her new home. Sethe was pregnant with her last child, Denver, and she had to walk miles and miles. She became so tired out she nearly died. However, a white woman came to save her and helped her give birth rather then leave her to die and lose her baby. This allowed me to see the strength that Sethe has, she hit rock bottom but she did not give up. Even though one of her children died, and two ran away from her leaving her with one child left, she does not complain and she continues to go through her daily life even though it may be tough.
The fact that a white woman, Amy Denver, helped Sethe and saved her life really interested me. This showed a sense of unity between women, no matter the color of their skin women still stick together because they know what it's like to be a woman. Even though Amy did not know exactly where Sethe was coming from, she still felt the need to help her out and bring her to shelter. Amy did not understand the scar on Sethe's back and where it came from bought she saw it as a beautiful symbol and a sign of a new beginning.
Baby Suggs is a powerful women as well through her preaching. When Baby Suggs was freed from slavery she tried to figure out what she could as a free woman. She was a woman of many talents and could easily succeed in many careers. She decided to do her preaching in the woods at a rock. This was not a very common position for a woman and it shows how much influence she has over others. Many look up to her and come up to her for advice because she is full of wisdom.
I really enjoyed reading about Sethe, Amy, and Baby Suggs, and how they all share a common trait which is being strong independent women. The analyzation you have done with your lens in the book is very well thought out. I must agree the feminist lens has helped me see each character differently. Can't wait to read more!
ReplyDeleteLike Ruth said, the comparison you make between all the women is very profound. I especially like the point you make when you say that there is a "unity between women, no matter the color of their skin." I think this is a concept that is super important, especially today!
ReplyDeleteI believe that the other women in Sethe's life have allowed her to become more and more courageous than ever before. I like the way you analyzed this from the book!
ReplyDeleteI never really thought about how surprising it was that a white women helped Sethe. I also read through the feminist lens and I agree that Sethe, Amy, and Baby Suggs are incredibly strong women.
ReplyDeleteTiffany you are doing a great job in getting you point across, I agree with you 100% with the fact that women will always stick together. It is really nice of Mr.Garner to help sethe out because she has gone through hell and back and having a friend would be very helpful
ReplyDeleteWhat do you think about Baby Suggs when she was in bed all day?
ReplyDeleteOMG I totally agree with what you said about Amy and Sethe! The bond between women is so strong because only we understand each other.
ReplyDeleteOMG I totally agree with what you said about Amy and Sethe! The bond between women is so strong because only we understand each other.
ReplyDeleteFirst off, love the location.
ReplyDeleteLove your message of how women stick together and share a bond so sacred no matter what race. You mentioned Sethe and Amy which truly shows the true connection of women. Us women stay united! Great Job!