Eloquent Rage: A Black Feminist Discovers Her Superpower

Cooper describes “eloquent rage” as her superpower and potentially that of other Black women as well. Identify an example of her eloquent rage in the book and discuss how it supports or detracts from her persuasiveness.

Discuss the role of intersectionality in Cooper’s analysis of identity and inequality.

Analyze Cooper’s use of personal experience and storytelling in the book. What is the relationship between personal experience and theory in Eloquent Rage: A Black Feminist Discovers Her Superpower?

Consider the role of popular culture—Black female icons, political figures, musicians—in the book. Why does Cooper include these figures in the book, and how does focus on them strengthen (or diminish) her arguments?

Discuss the representation of white women and Black men in the book. How does Cooper’s exploration of these identities support her arguments about intersectionality?

Identify one or more instances in which Cooper incorporates critical or literary theory in her discussion. What is its significance there? That is, what does it enable her to do? Why and how does Cooper make theory accessible for her general readers?

Discuss the impact of relationships with other women, including friends and family members, on Cooper’s articulation of her Black feminist identity.

In several essays, Cooper rejects the tenets of Black respectability. What are these tenets, and is she justified in her rejection of them? Feel free to use support from the book as well as popular culture and contemporary events.