Subversive Narratives as Strategies of Resistance: A Critical Analysis of Yvonne Vera’s Works
Abstract
The main thrust of the paper is to explore how women characters in Vera's works subvert the dominant masculine ideology on power by asserting themselves and resisting oppressive forces where dialogue spaces are limited for them. The study examines how characters attempt to challenge the existing norms in patriarchal societies through deviant acts such as self- immolation, infanticide, murder and any other actions to resist the hurtful happenings of the social order and how they disembark on their submissive social status and initiate a journey towards own space and autonomy. Using Foucault’s perspective on power and bodies, the study sought to establish how women employ their power and status in society to oppose the patriarchal injustices imposed on them. The study found out that, irrespective of their space and role in patriarchal societies, these women endeavour to develop a separate identity that enables them to resist and subvert patriarchal injustices. Further, the study revealed that through the women's unwavering thoughts and determination, they are able to get their imagined destinations and space for dialogue.
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