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Publication Date
5-2016
Date of Final Oral Examination (Defense)
3-11-2016
Type of Culminating Activity
Thesis - Boise State University Access Only
Degree Title
Master of Arts in Communication
Department
Communication
Supervisory Committee Chair
Heidi Reeder, Ph.D.
Supervisory Committee Member
erin d. mcclellan, Ph.D.
Supervisory Committee Member
Julie Lane, Ph.D.
Abstract
This study analyzed literal and figurative constructions of motherhood within Catherine Connors’ blog, Herbadmother. Texts for analysis included ten posts categorized by Connors under the label “feminism” when searching blog archives. I explored how these literal and figurative rhetorical constructions of motherhood supported Connors aim of using her “mommy blog” to engage in a “radical feminist act.” Literal constructions of motherhood included: (1) the description of Connors as a mother in her own family and (2) the description of Connors as a daughter to her own mother. Figurative constructions of motherhood included descriptions of Connors taking the role of metaphorical mother: (1) mother as defender of motherhood/patriarchal family, (2) mother as caregiver/teacher (3) mother as selfless, virtuous and noble. I conclude that Connors uses literal constructions of motherhood for self-affirmation, identification, and authenticity. Additionally, Connors combines literal and figurative constructions of motherhood in an “I/we” format in an effort to influence the larger practice of mommy blogging. By considering how Connors uses literal and figurative rhetorical constructions of motherhood, I share notable patterns which suggest that Connors was able to draw attention to the collective identity of mommy bloggers as an influential community that resists connotations of illegitimacy or insignificance with which “mommies” and “bloggers” are often associated.
Recommended Citation
Banner, Marshiela M., "The Radical Act of Mommy Blogging: Challenging Dominant Narratives of Motherhood Through Literal and Figurative Rhetoric" (2016). Boise State University Theses and Dissertations. 1113.
https://scholarworks.boisestate.edu/td/1113