Blog 23: The woman warrior / Maxine Hong Kingston

 In "The Woman Warrior," Maxine Hong Kingston shows her unique perspective on Chinese customs. She is fascinated by the stories and myths of her Chinese heritage but she also exposes the oppression and mistreated aspects of Chinese culture, especially toward women. She shows that she sees the significance of certain Chinese customs, such as the storytelling tradition that she got from her mother. But on the other hand, she struggles with these traditions with the realities of her life in America, where she faces discrimination and racism as a Chinese-American woman. She however shows so much perseverance thoruhout the story and demonstrates great ambition for her future. An example is seen when she says, "I am going to college. And I'm not going to Chinese school anymore. I am going to run for office at American scholar, and I am going to join clubs."(465). She is eager for a future she is going to work for and create for herself. Her relationship with her parents is also complex. Kingston has a shaky relationship with her mother, who is a strong and traditional Chinese woman. Her mother's emphasis on Chinese customs and traditions often buds heads with Kingston's desire to get into American culture, like the school example. On the other hand, Kingston has a more positive relationship with her father, who seems more supportive of her throughout the story. In addition to just women being seen as less than, male and female children are treated differently in Chinese culture. Boys have the upper hand and are given more opportunities and privileges than girls. Kingston herself experiences this discrimination as a girl and young woman. She has always had to overcome being told that she cannot do certain things or pursue certain careers because of her gender. These gender roles and expectations have a profound effect on Kingston, causing her to question her own identity and place.