Date of Award
5-11-2025
Date Published
June 2025
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
Department
Illustration
Advisor(s)
Ginnie Hsu
Second Advisor
Deborah Dohne
Keywords
CHARACTER DESIGN;CHINESE WOMEN;ILLUSTRATION;METAPHORICAL NARRATIVES
Subject Categories
Arts and Humanities | Fine Arts
Abstract
This thesis explores the struggles and growth of Chinese women through metaphorical narratives, focusing on how they navigate societal expectations, gender inequality, and personal identity. First, it examines the importance of metaphor and anthropomorphism in storytelling. It analyzes how these techniques are used to address women's issues. Second, it explores the social background of Chinese women, from the May Fourth Movement, which challenged traditional gender roles, to the socialist era’s push for labor equality, and the modern struggles of workplace discrimination and the "double burden." Third, it introduces Tortoise on the Way, a visual thesis written and illustrated by the author, which uses metaphor and anthropomorphism to critique societal norms and honor women’s resilience. This research emphasizes the value of storytelling in empowering women and challenging inequality by reclaiming narratives and promoting solidarity.
Access
Open Access
Recommended Citation
Jin, Cancan, "CHINESE WOMEN’S PERSPECTIVES IN METAPHORICAL NARRATIVES: EXPLORING IDENTITY, GROWTH, AND SOCIETAL EXPECTATIONS THROUGH ILLUSTRATION" (2025). Theses - ALL. 950.
https://surface.syr.edu/thesis/950
