This paper explores migrant domestic workers’ vulnerability in Brett Michael Innes’ novel, Rachel Weeping. The first point I will argue is that Rachel’s economic migration is driven by a poverty-stricken life, leading her to enter the “global care/clean chain.” Her anguish of being undervalued is not solely directed at her employers, the Jordaans, but also extends to the hierarchical structure within the domestic employment sector, and further reflects the broader issues of unequal development within the global economy. Secondly, despite the Jordaans refraining from employing the “part of the family” myth in their treatment of her, they still anticipate an equivalent level of emotional commitment. Drawing upon Arlie Russel Hochschild’s concept of “the economy of gratitude,” I argue that Rachel’s detachment demonstrates that genuine emotional bonds in the micropolitics of domestic employment will never form as long as class, racial, and economic disparities continue to overshadow the employment relationship.

Authors:
Chia-Chen Kuo, Tamkang University, Taiwan

About the Presenter(s)
Professor Chia-Chen Kuo is a University Assistant Professor/Lecturer at Tamkang University in Taiwan

See this presentation on the full schedule – Saturday Schedule

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