Post Colonialism: Utopian and Dystopian Elements in Maya Angelou’s Poetry

Document Type : Brief summaries of Dissertations.

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1 South Valley University, Faculty of Arts

2 Assistant Professor of English Literature, Faculty of Arts, South Valley University

3 English Literature Teacher, Faculty of Arts, South Valley University

10.21608/mkasu.2025.418344.1523

Abstract

This study explores postcolonial themes in Maya Angelou’s poetry, emphasizing utopian and dystopian elements shaped by colonial and racial experiences. Postcolonialism is analyzed not only as a literary method but as a broader framework addressing ongoing colonial legacies such as displacement, racial discrimination, alienation, and gender oppression. Angelou’s work reflects the complexities of racial identity, hybridity, and hegemony, critiquing white supremacy and its sociopolitical ramifications.



The study highlights Angelou’s personal and collective struggles against racism and patriarchy, illustrating how her poetry serves as a narrative of resilience and self-awareness. Utopianism in her poetry presents visions of freedom and justice, while dystopian elements expose harsh realities endured by African-Americans. Through close readings, the research demonstrates how Angelou’s poetic voice embodies postcolonial resistance and feminist consciousness. This thesis contributes to understanding the transformative power of literature in negotiating identity and history within the postcolonial context.



Key Words: Postcolonialism, Maya Angelou, Utopianism, Dystopianism, Racism, Hybridity, and Feminism.

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