The Development of Female Consciousness in The Girl with the Louding Voice

Fatima Arshad; Ambreen Salahuddin

Fatima Arshad Research scholar, M Phil English literature, Department of English and literary studies, University of Management and Technology, Lahore
Ambreen Salahuddin Assistant Professor, Department of Gender studies, University of the Punjab, Lahore.

Keywords: female consciousness, Black feminism, violence, patriarchy, Abi Dare

Abstract

This study analyzes the representation of female consciousness in Abi Daré’s novel titled as The Girl with the Louding Voice. The text elucidates the obstacles encountered by Black women within the framework of patriarchal dominance, and underscores how the narrative of the central character brings to the fore these concerns within the context of Nigerian culture. The literary work portrays the confinement experienced by African American girls and their endeavor to attain autonomous social standing within a patriarchal society where females are subjugated. This research employs a qualitative methodology, utilizing close textual analysis to explore the development of female consciousness within the novel. The theoretical lens of female consciousness is applied to examine how the protagonist’s journey reflects the broader struggles of women in a patriarchal society. This research highlights the significance of enabling female agency as opposed to constraining it. Moreover, the text illustrates how the normalization of the hardships faced by female characters in the novel can foster a sense of assurance in young women regarding their feminine identity, ultimately resulting in a reduced probability of encountering instances of sexual harassment and violence. This work ultimately demonstrates the ability of female characters to realize their aspirations and reach their full potential.