O corpo da mulher como campo de disputa: representações ocidentais sobre as intervenções genitais femininas em África

Abstract

This study employs the expression “female genital modifications” to refer to a wide variety of procedures, which vary according to geographical region and/or practice group. In each of these, the terms used to refer to these modifications as well as their meanings may change throughout time. Although they occur in many parts of the world, it is the female genital modifications carried out in Africa that have generated the most discussion. The western perspective on this type of modification generally reiterates representations that reinforce mainly racial and gender stereotypes. Thus, it is presently possible to note a continuity of the colonial discourse about these genital modifications. In this sense, this dissertation problematizes discourses and representations of the female body within the realm of genital modifications. It will also discuss conceptions of tradition, gender and female sexuality and reflect upon the role of discourse as a legitimator of political intervention. Due to the complexity of the topic in hand, many of the reflections suggested by this paper are based on the context of Guinea-Bissau. With view to contributing to a study about gender in the African context, a historical interpretation in constant dialogue with the field of anthropology will be presented. The main aim of this dissertation is to contribute to the deconstruction of a one-sided western gaze towards Africa.