American Studies ETDs

Publication Date

7-18-1978

Abstract

This study of black women's lives-and self-conceptions in America is based on their own words. Autobiography proves to be a readily available source for examining the growth and development of black females. Analysis of their autobiographical accounts is thematic in this disser­tation. Chapter I, Introduction, is an overview of the literary criticism on autobiography. The values in autobiography, generally, and black female autobiography, specifically, are discussed. Chapter II, "Emerging Slave Women's Personalities and Concerns," presents the varied personality types among female slaves and ex-slaves, thus disputing the single slave personality theory, and the stereotypes emerging from the theory. The themes of family, blackness, work, religion, and slavery versus freedom are discussed and established as the themes recurring in the later writings of twentieth century black women. Chapter III, "Family as 'Significant Others': Childhood and Related Experiences," reveals the impact family members have on the young women's developing senses of self. Family attitudes toward life and rearing children receive attention also. Chapter IV, "Conceptions of Self among African­American Female Youth in American Society," discusses the forces that enlighten the young women about their place in society and mold their personalities. Racism, segregation, religion, education, and travel are factors that contribute to their growing consciences. Chapter V, "Sex, Love, and Marriage--Routes Toward Attaining Womanhood," examines the various ways young black females attempt to attain the status of woman. Sexual behavior, attitudes toward love and marriage, and conceptions and maintenance of self are analyzed in relation to womanhood. Chapter VI, "In Search of the Black Female Self,” explores the varied conceptions of the black female self. The women's attitudes toward blackness, racism, sexual­racism, and womanhood are presented. Chapter VII, "Work: The Commitment and the Self­Statement," analyzes the motives behind job selection or career choice. Forces that motivate and obstacles that stifle the development of lifework commitments are discussed. Chapter VIII, Conclusion, reviews the composite personality that emerges from studying the women collectively.

Language

English

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

American Studies

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

American Studies

First Committee Member (Chair)

Robert Edward Fleming

Second Committee Member

Helen Marie Bannan

Third Committee Member

Joel M. Jones

Fourth Committee Member

Peter Lewis White

Fifth Committee Member

Lloyd Brown

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