Abstract
This paper analyzes the book Nuclear Family by Joseph Han through a feminist lens. The parameters of the feminist lens are clarified by the definitions within How to Interpret Literature by Robert Parker. Feminist literary theory is seen throughout the novel by applying a range of critiques that expose the underlying instances of prejudice against the portrayal of female characters that can be found in many areas of literature. When approaching a piece of literature with this lens, it provides a deeper analysis of the implications made by the author that may not be obvious from an initial read. Specifically, this paper argues how the book exemplifies the imbalance of power and expectations between the female characters, Umma and Grace and the male characters, Appa, Jacob, and Tae Woo, while the feminist critique delves into the contribution of this concept from cultural structures. This paper also touches on the idea of a woman’s societal and familial role and narrow the perspective to the expectations bestowed on women in Korean American culture which is implied in the novel. This concept is further fleshed out on how it contributes to exposing the effects of the generational patriarchy differently in Grace and Umma. Ultimately, this critique is supported by the framework of masculinity formed by the male characters in the novel and the presumption of blame placed on female characters for the male characters’ actions.
Presenters
Tabitha PachecoEnglish, University of Hawai'i at Hilo, Hawaii, United States Xailea Anderson Iopa
Student, English and Administrative Justice, University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hawaii, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Feminist Literary Theory, Nuclear Family, Joseph Han, Robert Parker, Gender
