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Intersectionality in Early Feminist Texts: Herland, Sultana's Dream, and Iola Leroy Main Menu

Female Relationships

17058

Intersections

The bond of sisterhood is held in high regard throughout these three texts. Iola Leroy focuses on the familial ascpect of female relationships. They are a source wisedom and companionship. While most of the women outside of Iola family are cruel, those within guide and inspire her to make good decisions. Even the relationship that Iola develops with Miss Delany is based on the familial connection to her brother. Because the women of Herland come from a common ancestor, every female relationship is familial. The bond between all of the "sisters" is integral to their society functioning. The women rely on each other for both survival, comfort, and wisdom. Likewise, sisterhood in "Sultana's Dream" is an uplifting relationship. Both realities depict societies where women can bond and share with each other. In both places, women can talk comfortably and respectfully as they walk thourgh a garden together. It is clear that all women have something worthwhile to share with each other.

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Intersectionality Gabrielle Borders
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Iola Leroy p.200 Female Friendship in Iola Leroy In Frances Harper's novel Iola Leroy female friendhsip does appear, but is not as central as in Herland or "Sultana' Dream." Women who speak to ech other on a regular basis are either a part of the same church community, are family, or are potential family. In this novel, Iola's friendship with Miss Delaney springs from Miss Delaney being a potential wife for Iola's brother Harry. The actvities they do together are domestic and friendship as we define it now is not stressed much in the novel.
"Sultana's Dream" Female Friendship page 7 Clearly an image from the sultana's past, she describes her history with Sister Sara, yet she is also describing the events of this novella. Nearly all these women do is talk lightheartedly as they stroll through the gardens that are Ladyland. But here in Ladyland, it is assumed that topics are much broader than in the sultana's world. They are free to discuss everything from needlework, to politics, and even science. Rokeya depicts a relationship that has not changed across realities. The close bond that women share remains intact no matter the circumstances.
"Sultana's Dream" Female Friendship page 13 Poised to take their place as rulers of Ladyland, a group of women gather to devise a strategy to defeat the enemy, both foreign and at home. Like the sultana and Siter Sara, the discussion that follows is rational and generous. Women pose ideas and listen to their fellows. Even the idea of suicide should they fail is tossed around with a level of calm not befitting the subject matter. Unlike stereotypical depictions of a gathering of women, these educated women show the best of what women can be.
Herland female relationships pg.59