The Interplay of Body Politics, Race, and Gender in Tayari Jones’s An American Marriage and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Silver Sparrow

Abstract

This paper investigates the intricate interplay of body politics, race, and gender in Tayari Jones’s An American Marriage and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Silver Sparrow. Through the lens of intersectionality and performativity, it analyzes how societal structures and cultural norms influence the lived experiences of marginalized individuals, particularly Black women. The novels illuminate how systemic oppression manifests in the forms of incarceration, gendered expectations, and social stigma. Protagonists Celestial, Roy (An American Marriage), and Dana (Silver Sparrow) navigate these challenges by resisting societal norms and asserting their agency. The paper explores how their experiences highlight the complex relationship between the body, identity, and power. By examining these texts, we gain a deeper understanding of body politics’ role in shaping our world and the ongoing struggle for social justice.