Aesthetic Philosophy of a Mother in Terry McMillan’s Mama: A Cultural Approach

  • CHITRA SOMAN

Abstract

Terry McMillans fiction celebrates the wisdom and enduring love of the African mothers ,Apart from, highlighting the joys and sorrows of motherhood. Motherhood holds a special meaning in Black womens lives. Motherhood in itself is a significant marker of womanhood. It provides respectable social identity and also offers a space where certain qualities like self -expression and authority. Afro American mothers are greatly respected in their society because they ensure the continuity of their race. Terry McMillan explores the significance of motherhood and its varied facets in her novel Mama . African American mother is symbolized by the spirit of independence, a keen sense of personal rights and a deep love for her children, all of which is reflected in McMillans portrayal of mother figure in this novel . McMillans mother characters change history by empowering themselves and their children. African-American children are taught to be strong and self-reliant. Black Mothers adopt racially inbuilt practices and effort to instill values of pride and commitment in their children. They teach them the value of independence and also the tactics to strive towards self- affirmation.

Published
2019-11-15
Section
Articles