Violence and abuse in Maya Angelou's autobiography: I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

Abstract

The aim of this dissertation is to reflect upon the effects of abuse, racism, and segregation on the African-American community through the analysis of the autobiographical novel by Maya Angelou, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings. Angelou's youth during the 1930's and 40's was altered by the humiliation and indignation endured as a consequence of discrimination. Racial domination of society is also illustrated in the book analyzed. Through examination of Angelou's narrative, it is possible to evaluate how the underlying effects caused by social determinants and inequality faced by the African-American community affected the author's development. This era, prior to the American Civil Rights Movement, marked by the Great Depression and World War II, was defining for various African-American writers and still has importance and influence to this day on impactful political, economic and social concerns. The discrepancies in societal division, discrimination, bigotry and chauvinism were crucial to the shaping of the young author. The complexity of the accounts show the perspective of a minority group member and Angelou's narrative have since gained the status of empowerment. Angelou's work is a historical testimony that reflects the discriminating reality of her society while illustrating how her struggles led to a journey towards self-acceptance.