“Poor” in conjunction with “black” As previously discussed in this project, the repeated use of “black” as a negative and oppressive descriptor throughout the novel conveys the chronic othering of black individuals during the Romantic period. Similarly, Olivia and Dido, her faithful black servant, often use the words “poor” and “black” simultaneously when referring to each other, further conveying the hegemonic perception of black socioeconomic … Continue reading Poor
Throughout The Woman of Colour, the use of the word “colour” is employed for multiple different meanings—both drawing on the racial connotations as well as blushing, makeup, and art. Colour is a homonym, and is also used frequently in a metaphorical sense. I want to note that within the context of this novel and society, I do not wish to identify anyone as c****red, as … Continue reading Colour
Whiteness as property: Angelina, Olivia, and Dido Throughout The Woman of Colour, the ways in which Angelina, a white woman, Olivia, a mixed-race woman, and Dido, a black woman, interact with one another convey the spectrum of racial marginalization during the long 18th century. Despite being equal human beings, I noticed a hierarchy in how each woman treats and almost worships whoever has higher social … Continue reading Whiteness
“Black” as a negative and othering descriptor Throughout the 1808 novel The Woman of Colour, the anonymous author uses the word “black” to label negative situations and characters of color as others. The term “black” is frequented by the novel’s white characters like little George and Augustus Merton to categorize individuals of color as a different sect of humans who are exotic and inferior to … Continue reading Black
A prevailing theme within Olivia Fairfield’s story is her faith and how that shapes her journey. She is forced to balance a new home with very little security and guidance, but faith gives her what she is lacking. Olivia is able to turn to God and the Christianity that she is practicing to better understand herself and her situation. One term that is commonly used … Continue reading Pray
