The Agency in Resistance

Abstract

Abstract This chapter addresses the complexity of agency in storytelling, arguing that agency must be viewed in terms of one’s place in society. First, the capacity and responsibility to resist harmful master narratives are discussed as kinds of personal agency. Interpersonal and sociopolitical contexts that support and nurture resistance are discussed. Second, this chapter draws special attention to how agency is employed and weaponized depending on where one sits in the social structure. In particular, the responsibility to resist oppressive master narratives rests not only with those who are oppressed but also with those who are the oppressors.