A Note About Posting

Please refer to the previous guidelines in reference to posting on the blog. Here are other considerations for the Wright blog posts:

• Choose ONE of the themes from either Wright’s Native Son or Black Boy.  
• Edit/revise/proof before you post.   
• You may comment on another student’s post; however, you must have your own ideas as well. 

Professor Graham and Dr. Miller Smith

Richard Wright Theme 5--WHITENESS:

In Native Son and Black Boy, whiteness is represented on many different levels. What ways is whiteness presented as a positive or negative? What privilege is whiteness given? How do the characters benefit and/or suffer based on their whiteness? Make sure you select specific examples and explain their meaning.

Richard Wright Theme 4--RELIGION:

In Native Son and Black Boy, religion plays a role in how the main characters see the world. Identify the ways religion is embraced &/or rejected. Why is it (or is it) central to the plot?

Richard Wright Theme 3--HUNGER:

In Native Son and Black Boy, hunger is represented as more than just a desire/need for food. Explain how hunger is played out through a specific character’s actions or ideology. Identify the TYPE of hunger i.e. hunger for knowledge/education etc. How does hunger shape the character’s perspective and his/her relationship with others? Consider if the hunger has a negative and/or positive impact on the character’s/s’ actions.

Richard Wright Theme 2--FEAR:

In Native Son and Black Boy, we get to experience many elements of fear. How is fear addressed in the narrative? Are there different types of fear? How do the characters deal with their own fears? Select two characters and identify examples of fear.  In what ways does fear bring the characters closer or tear them apart?

Richard Wright Theme 1--VIOLENCE:

In Native Son and Black Boy, violence is woven throughout. Consider the ways that violence impacts the characters and the plot. Is it a necessary element to move the stories forward? In what ways do you agree or disagree with Wright’s depiction of violence?