Mapping Womanism: A Critical Literature Review of Intersectionality in Alice Walker's Works

Abstract: This paper examines the conceptual framework of womanism as articulated by Alice Walker and its relationship to intersectionality theory. Through a comprehensive analysis of Walker's literary works and theoretical writings, this review explores how womanism emerged as a critical response to the limitations of mainstream feminism and how it anticipates and complements intersectionality theory. The findings suggest that Walker's womanism provides a crucial foundation for understanding Black women's experiences and continues to offer valuable insights for contemporary feminist discourse. This paper argues that womanism's emphasis on the interconnectedness of race, gender, and class oppression established important groundwork for Kimberlé Crenshaw's later formulation of intersectionality, while maintaining distinct qualities that continue to make it relevant in addressing the complex realities of Black women's lives. Keywords: Intersectionality, Womanism, feminism, black feminism, Afro American. Title: Mapping Womanism: A Critical Literature Review of Intersectionality in Alice Walker's Works Author: Anjaly Nair M.K., Dr. G.M. Tungesh International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations ISSN 2348-1218 (print), ISSN 2348-1226 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 2, April 2025 - June 2025 Page No: 6-14 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 16-April-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15222883 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/mapping-womanism-a-critical-literature-review-of-intersectionality-in-alice-walkers-works