This study focuses on Sherley Anne Williams' Dessa Rose and how the novel portrays the strength and resilience of black women in the face of slavery and racism. Using a trauma studies approach, the present research explores the impact of trauma on black identity and how this is reflected in Williams' novel. Through a critical analysis of the novel, the study shows how Williams uses different literary techniques to reveal the lived experiences of black women during the times of slavery and how they have continued to thrive despite the struggles they face. It is also attempted to examine the ways in which Williams' portrayal of black women in Dessa Rose align with contemporary discussions on black feminism and intersectionality. The author argues that Williams'' book is an important contribution to the discourse of black identity and feminism, providing a voice for women who have been marginalized by society. Throughout this thesis, the author emphasizes the importance of literature as a form of resistance against oppression and argues that Williams' work offers a powerful example of how literature can be used to promote social justice. The author also discusses the implications of Dessa Rose for contemporary discussions on race and identity, emphasizing the significance of recognizing the struggles and triumphs of black women throughout history.
