Unravelling Oppression: A Study of Black Feminism in Ntozake Shange’s Novel “Sassafrass, Cypress & Indigo”

Abstract

Ntozake Shange’s novel “Sassafrass, Cypress & Indigo” explores the complexities  of Black womanhood, identity, and empowerment through the lives of three sisters. Set against the historical backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement and Black Arts Movement, highlights the intersectional oppression faced by Black women and the role of art in self-expression and resistance. Through various artistic mediums like music, dance, and weaving, the sisters    discover their identities and develop a sense of self-awareness, autonomy, and womanhood. The novel demonstrates art as a tool for activism, challenging societal norms and promoting individual and collective liberation. Shange’s characters are filled with passion for art, which enables them to express themselvesand connect with their ancestral roots. The sisters’ artistic journeys are intertwined with their experiences of racism, sexism, and marginalization within their community, This research aims to elaborate on the Black feminist perspective toward women’s oppression by focusing on the intersectional oppression of Black protagonists in “Sassafrass, Cypress & Indigo”. By examining the novel’s exploration of artivism, this study highlights the significance of alternative narratives and amplifying marginalized voices. The novel’s use of magical realism and non-linear narrative structures adds depth and complexity to the sisters’ stories, allowing for a nuanced exploration of their experiences. Through Sassafrass’s weaving, Cypress’s dance, Shange showcases the diverse ways in which Black women can express themselves and assert their identities.