This book aims at analyzing how identity is performed in Paule Marshall's novel Praisesong for the Widow. It will identify central themes and motives that play into identity performance and will elaborate on theoretical approaches to identity formation by looking at the works of Tim Edensor, Judith Butler and Stuart Hall. Consequently, this book aims at validating that identity performance is not just a means of expressing culture, but also establishes contemporary trickster figures in African American literature.