Major Issues
Author Links
Essay Questions

Major Issues

Alice Walker’s abiding interest in feminism and social activism is attested to in both her life and literary works. Her work is often discussed in the context of 20th century African American women’s writing. Walker presents the violence, abuse, poverty, and racism endured by her predominantly female characters. Although Walker deals head on with the brutal elements of life, critics describe her fiction as a tribute to and celebration of black women’s strength of character and spirit. Some critics, in fact, have accused Walker of being sexist in her largely negative portrayal of men. Families, marriage, initiation, spirituality, and dark passions have been identified as Walker’s major themes. The "womanist" elements of Walker’s writing have been analyzed, especially her fictional treatment of racial and gender politics. Critics have also examined her rhythmic, lyrical prose.

Author Links

Anniina’s Alice Walker Page
This site includes a short biography of Walker, followed by lots of links to Walker biographies, bibliographies, reviews, criticism, and more.

Living By Grace
This well-organized site provides a biography, annotated timeline, selected bibliography, writing influences, and "fun facts" about Walker.

Alice Walker
A lengthy bio-critical essay about Walker.

Featured Author: Alice Walker
Reviews of Walker’s books, plus articles by and about Walker from The New York Times archives.

Online Literary Criticism Collection
Scroll down to find links to a number of profiles, interviews, and essays on Walker.