(De) Constructing Patriarchal and Sexist Discourses: Re-Reading Toni Morrison’s The Bluest Eye and Sula

Abstract

Patriarchal and sexist discourses have come under scorching attacks from most feminist writers since the advent of modern feminism. This work analyses Toni Morrison’s attempt at deconstructing patriarchal and sexist discourses in The Bluest Eye and Sula. It adds its voice to the ever vibrant conversation on the issue of patriarchy and sexism especially as portrayed in the works of African American female writers who see their stories as twice-told tales - victims of both racism and patriarchal dominance. Tony Morrison challenges patriarchal and sexist values which she sees as monolithic discourses that hold no ground. She portrays female characters whose never-say-die attitudes go a long way towards deconstructing this monolithic system. By showing her male characters as weak, irresponsible, and social misfits, and her female characters as dynamic, strong, and hardworking individuals on whom their different families rely for security and sustenance, Morrison is not only rejecting the prevailing patriarchal values of our society, she is as well on a crusade towards its deconstruction. In so doing, she does not try to paint spotless alabaster heroines, but rather she shows ordinary women in their struggle for survival in an indifferent and often times cruel environment.