Animality and Humanity in French Late Modern Representations of Black Femininity

This book explores how the representations of black femininity in French visual culture reflect the destructive relationship between the Global North and the natural world. It traces how a patriarchal imperialism and global capitalism have linked black women with nature to justify exploitation, perpetuating social injustice and environmental depletion. The book combines visual studies, critical race theory, and animal studies to historicize the boundaries between human and non-human animals during the modern period and will be of interest to scholars in art history, visual studies, critical race theory, colonial and post-colonial studies, animal studies, and French studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 142 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This comprehensive volume delves into the intricate evolution of representations of black femininity in French visual culture, serving as a powerful lens through which to comprehend the destructive relationship between the Global North and the natural world. By examining a diverse range of archives spanning from the late 18th century to the present, including paintings, fashion plates, prints, photographs, and films, this study uncovers the profound ways in which patriarchal imperialism and global capitalism have intertwined black women with the realm of nature, perpetuating the exploitation of both human and ecological systems. These dehumanizing and speciesist tactics have fostered interlocking patterns of social injustice and environmental degradation, posing the most pressing challenges confronting humanity today.

In order to address these complex issues, this interdisciplinary investigation employs a novel approach that combines visual studies, critical race theory, and animal studies. By historicizing the shifting boundaries between human and non-human animals during the modern period, the book offers a fresh perspective on the complex interplay between race, gender, and species in shaping our world.

This volume will appeal to scholars engaged in art history, visual studies, critical race theory, colonial and post-colonial studies, animal studies, and French studies. Its insights into the historical and cultural constructions of black femininity and the environmental implications of our relationship with nature will contribute to a deeper understanding of these critical issues and inspire further research and dialogue.

Weight: 440g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032135427