“A New Black Woman” Discussing Gender and Race Norms using Sula in the EFL Classroom Alejandra

Abstract

Abstract: The aim of this study is to examine the possibility of using Sula, by Toni Morrison, as a pedagogical resource in the EFL classroom in order to raise students' critical thinking and an awareness of gender and race norms. The method used is a thematic reading of the novel. The theory used to carry out the study was norm-critical pedagogy. It helped analyze the main characters, Nel and Sula in regards to gender and race norms; and to discuss how to use the reactions from students in order to raise critical thinking and awareness of these norms. Pedagogical implications are discussed in relation to the novel, as it is an important and provocative novel about what it constitutes to be a black woman. The findings of the study show that Nel and Sula are portrayed as complex characters. Complexity in characters questions stereotypes that oppress, thus concluding that Sula might be a pedagogical resource.