Oppression, agency, and appropriation in the work of Josephine Baker

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the life and influence of the super star Josephine Baker. From Baker’s upbringing during the Harlem renaissance and her artistic career in Paris during the roaring twenties, it also examines Baker’s impact and role as a political activist and spokeswoman. Firstly, it places Baker in her historical context and highlights how she through artistry and irony subverted the very stereotype she was presenting on stage, and how her cultural ‘in-between-ness’ made her a subject of great interest and popularity. Secondly, it focuses on Baker as a dancer and what sources her performances were derived from; this leads to questions of appropriation and authenticity and an investigation of minstrelsy and African American dance traditions. Finally, this dissertation examines Baker’s influence today and draws parallels to contemporary female artists Beyoncé Knowles and Eisa Jocson and the issues they face in terms of empowerment, feminism and commodification.