Abstract

This study explores female identity formation in novels by women of colour from the 1970's and 1980's. Drawing on feminist discussions of gender, race, and identity, it contends that while generalized notions based on race and gender are valid, they must be used with caution. The selected novels share certain formal and thematic characteristics when depicting marginalized American women of colour, which motivates bringing them together. The book traces a few significant models of identity formation connected to genres such as feminist versions of the Kuenstlerroman, the Bildungsroman, and the novel of awakening.