Discussion Questions
for Portrait of a Feminist
- Discuss the book’s title, Portrait of a Feminist. What do you think feminism means to the author? How do you think she came to this definition?
- Discuss the author’s voice and role as narrator. In what ways does she explore identity, family history, relationships, and gender roles through the prism of her life experiences?
- The book is organized in essay-chapters. Why do you think the author structured her memoir in this way? How did this structure affect your experience of reading the book?
- Discuss the main events or turning points that shaped the author’s understanding of feminism. How do they reflect your own ideas about feminism?
- Some of the chapters depict the intersections of identity, specifically a gendered identity, and various cultural norms. Did any of these depictions challenge, enhance, or reinforce your experience of feminism?
- In some chapters the author questions her own values and assumptions around gender identity and women’s rights. One such chapter is “It’s Sometimes Gray,” and another is “Leda and the Swan.” Discuss the effect of that kind of interrogation on the reading experience in general and your own assumptions about gender.
- There are many “characters” in this book, from the narrator herself to family, friends, colleagues, and strangers. Do you have a favorite? A least favorite?
- Do you have a favorite chapter? Or one that stayed with you?
- What were some of the “takeaways” from the book? Did any resonate with you?