The diaspora, referring to the dispersion of people of African descent across the world due to the transatlantic slave trade and its aftermath, has had a profound impact on black women throughout history. The experiences of black women within the diaspora have shaped their identities and roles in various ways, which are often reflected in film, literature, and music. In this paper, we will explore three archetypes of black women as portrayed in these mediums, and discuss how they relate to the current state of black women post-diaspora.
Archetype 1: The Strong, Resilient Black Woman
One archetype that has emerged from the diaspora is the portrayal of black women as strong and resilient. This archetype is often depicted as being able to endure
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This portrayal often depicts black women as overly aggressive, confrontational, and angry, with an attitude that is deemed as "sassy" or "savage." This stereotype has been used to diminish and invalidate the experiences and emotions of black women, dismissing their valid concerns and frustrations.
One example of this archetype can be seen in the character of Madea, portrayed by Tyler Perry in his films. Madea is a black female character who is often portrayed as sassy, loud, and aggressive, with a quick temper and a confrontational attitude. While Madea is a fictional character intended for comedic purposes, her portrayal contributes to the stereotype of the sassy and angry black woman, perpetuating harmful stereotypes about black women's attitudes and behaviors.
Another example of the sassy and angry black woman archetype can be seen in the portrayal of black women in reality TV shows or talk shows, where black women are often depicted as overly confrontational, argumentative, and aggressive. This portrayal contributes to the stereotype of black women as constantly angry or confrontational, dismissing their legitimate emotions and concerns as mere "attitude" or "sass," and invalidating their
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This portrayal depicts black women as subservient, nurturing, and loyal, often in positions of domestic service or caregiving roles for white families. The Mammy or Aunt Jemima figure is portrayed as overweight, dark-skinned, and with exaggerated facial features, reinforcing harmful stereotypes about black women's appearances and roles.
One example of this archetype can be seen in the character of Mammy in the film "Gone with the Wind." Mammy is a black female character who serves as the loyal and devoted house servant of a white family during the Civil War era. She is portrayed as overweight, dark-skinned, and with exaggerated facial features, conforming to the stereotype of the Mammy figure. Mammy's character perpetuates the harmful stereotype of black women as subservient and nurturing, existing solely to care for white