Language, power, and gender in transnational education

A feminist critical discourse analysis of women’s representation in We Need New Names

Authors

  • Hassan Mahmood COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7525-646X
  • Aasia Nusrat COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan
  • Ahmed Al Shlowiy Jubail English Language and Preparatory Year Institute, Saudi Arabia
  • Abdul Khalique Khoso Yangzhou University, China

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32674/5yaadr98

Keywords:

Feminist theory, critical discourse analysis, gender identities, power relations, women's agency, gender imbalances, patriarchal society

Abstract

In this paper, we use feminist critical discourse analysis (FCDA) to study the linguistic aspects that shape and frame gendered power and relations in We Need New Names by NoViolet Bulawayo. Through qualitative analysis of dialogues, narrative structures, and silences, we highlight how patriarchal norms are reinforced and challenged. The findings reveal four categories derived from the analysis: silence as resistance; silence as socialization; language marginalization in diaspora settings; and the inversion of colonial-patriarchal discourse. The findings suggest that silence in the novel can function simultaneously as a patriarchal disciplinary measure and a resistant counter discourse, enabling women to exercise their agency. The results also suggest how hybrid and diminished linguistic presence in the diaspora setting is symptomatic of the intersections of gender and cultural hegemony. 

Author Biographies

  • Hassan Mahmood, COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan

    HASSAN MAHMOOD, MS in Linguistics and Literature at COMSATS University Lahore, Pakistan. His major research interests lie in discourse analysis, second language acquisition, literature, language and identity, and postcolonial literature. 

  • Aasia Nusrat, COMSATS University Islamabad, Pakistan

    AASIA NUSRAT, PhD is an Associate Professor currently serving at COMSATS University, Lahore, Pakistan. Her major research interests lie in discourse analysis, bilingualism, and second-language acquisition.

  • Ahmed Al Shlowiy, Jubail English Language and Preparatory Year Institute, Saudi Arabia

    Ahmed Al Shlowiy has 26 years of experience in different academic fields and administrative affairs. He is serving as a Professor of Educational Linguistics (English Language). He is a researcher, author, editor, and reviewer in several scientific journals. His research interests include Applied linguistics, TESOL, Sociocultural Theories, Language Teaching and Learning, ESL/EFL/EIL/ELT, Second Language Acquisition, Bilingualism, Literacy, Online Learning, Blended Learning, Flipped Learning, Educational Research, Qualitative Research, Curriculum & Instruction, Academic Writing and Emerging Technologies.

  • Abdul Khalique Khoso, Yangzhou University, China

    ABDUL KHALIQUE KHOSO, PhD scholar at the College of International Studies at Yangzhou University, China. His research interests are Applied Linguistics, ELT methods, and AI in Language learning.

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Published

2026-02-23

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 5 (2026): Journal of International Students

Section

Special Issue: Rethinking International Education

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How to Cite

Mahmood, H., Nusrat, A. ., Shlowiy, A. A., & Khoso, A. K. . (2026). Language, power, and gender in transnational education: A feminist critical discourse analysis of women’s representation in We Need New Names. Journal of International Students, 16(5), 63-78. https://doi.org/10.32674/5yaadr98