This book is a collection of significant analytical and critical writings on how the structures of power have exerted systematic governance over women. also addresses how the rhetorical devices of tradition and modernity have played important roles in the control and appropriation of African women's bodies. The chapters draw on history, literature, political science, journalism, sociology, comparative studies, and women and gender studies to offer multidisciplinary perspectives from which to understand the diversity of women's experiences, gender issues, and sexualities as they intersect with class, race, ethnicity, and nationality.

This volume not only shows how the macro-narratives of colonialism and post-colonialism provide frameworks for understanding the micro-narratives of empowerment and disempowerment of women, but also considers resistance strategies women have used to guard against the subjugation of their bodies and sexualities. Themes covered include constructions of African motherhood and womanhood, femininity and health, gender and sexual representations and contestations, and gendered nationalism and culture. is not only an important sourcebook, but it also speaks to a broad spectrum of readers from a multidisciplinary perspective.

This book is part of the , edited by Toyin Falola, Frances Higginbotham Nalle Centennial Professor in History, University of Texas at Austin.