What is Kingstons purpose or thesis in writing Woman Warrior?
The chapters integrate Kingston’s lived experience with a series of talk-stories—spoken stories that combine Chinese history, myths, and beliefs—her mother tells her. The Woman Warrior is not a chronicle of Chinese culture or traditions, but simply a reflection of the experience of one Chinese-American far removed from the culture and traditions about which she is writing. Kingston’s memoir finds its way onto the syllabi of many women’s studies courses for the gender issues it raises, especially regarding the role of women in traditional Chinese society. Brave Orchid embodies an archetypal Chinese attitude of self-denial and self-abnegation for the good of the community—the very qualities that “No-Name Woman” lacks. Kingston’s memoir is further peppered with references to the subjugation of women in Chinese culture and tradition, such as the oft-repeated phrase “better to have geese than girls.” The Woman Warrior is as much about Kingston’s finding voice and strength as an independent
