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?

RACE: Are We So Different? Blog Post *Extra Credit*

After viewing the RACE: Are We So Different? exhibit at RMSC, please share your response(s) to what you viewed/experienced.

TONI MORRISON THEME 5--E-RACE-ING THE BLACK FEMALE BODY:

Examine one of the following themes relating to the Black female body in Beloved or Sula:

• Sexuality
• Femininity
• Scarring
• Dismemberment

TONI MORRISON THEME 4--E-RACE-ING THE BLACK MALE BODY:

Examine one of the following themes relating to the Black male body in Beloved or Sula:

• Imprisonment
• Self-inflicted harm
• Sexuality
• Masculinity

TONI MORRISON THEME 3--OUTLAWS, OUTCASTS AND PARIAHS:

Both Morrison novels have characters who are not a part of the acceptable community. Using Beloved or Sula, identify the role your selected character has with the “decent” or “normal” community. What do we learn about the character through his/her actions? In other words, why is s/he labeled as an outlaw, outcast or pariah. Consider how the town’s response affects the character. Make sure you begin your text by identifying the character(s) and provide evidence that illustrates the topic focus.