Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

Fall 10-27-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

December 2025

Department

Comparative Studies Program

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Wendy Hinshaw

Abstract

This dissertation explores and analyzes revisited personal narratives, which I define as layering perspectives or theorizing upon previously presented narratives. Specifically, I argue that revisited personal narratives are uniquely positioned to not only explore the intricacies of fluidity and truth within narrative but also deepen the insight into the perspectives of marginalized identities, thereby aiding in the deconstruction of cisheteronormativity and the reclaiming of autonomy—both bodily and narrative. Bodily autonomy refers to the freedom and ability to make choices about one’s own body and identity, including the right to not have one’s body violated, the right to access healthcare, the right to live freely, and the right to basic human rights, and narrative autonomy refers to the right to hold ownership over personal stories, experiences, and identities, including choosing when, how, and with whom to share those experiences. I explore numerous revisitation types throughout this dissertation. For example, in Chanel Miller’s memoir, Know My Name, she juxtaposes three distinct narrative perspectives. In doing so, she uncovers the effect of narrative presentation in interpretation while simultaneously challenging rape myths and reclaiming her identity. Alternatively, Janet Mock navigates fluidity and truth within identity by discussing her narrative decisions within her two memoirs, Redefining Realness: My Path to Womanhood, Identity, Love & So Much More and Surpassing Certainty: What My Twenties Taught Me. Her narrative decisions correlate to her challenging of societal assumptions regarding trans identities, particularly trans women of color. To further engage with these narrative tactics, I revisit my master’s thesis through an examination of my narrative choices and presentations. The dissertation concludes with a demonstration of how revisited personal narratives can be actively engaged to foster greater understanding of oppressed identities. In doing so, I demonstrate how revisited personal narratives are uniquely positioned to not only serve as an act of resistance against cisheteronormativity but also reclaim bodily autonomy.

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