Native Son

Definition

Native Son is a novel written by Richard Wright, published in 1940, that explores the life of Bigger Thomas, a young African American man living in Chicago during the 1930s. The book addresses themes of systemic racism, poverty, and the psychological effects of oppression on individuals, making it a significant work in African American literature and an essential commentary on social issues of the time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. 'Native Son' was groundbreaking for its unflinching portrayal of racial violence and the psychological turmoil faced by African Americans during the 20th century.
2. The novel is divided into three parts: 'Fear,' 'Flight,' and 'Fate,' each exploring different stages of Bigger Thomas's life and his responses to systemic oppression.
3. Wright's use of symbolism, such as the rat that Bigger kills at the beginning of the book, serves to illustrate larger themes of entrapment and survival.
4. 'Native Son' received critical acclaim but also sparked controversy due to its candid depiction of race relations and violence, influencing future generations of writers.
5. The book's legacy continues to resonate today as it remains a key text in discussions about race, identity, and social justice in America.

Review Questions

• How does Richard Wright use the character of Bigger Thomas to illustrate the effects of systemic racism on individual identity?
  • Richard Wright uses Bigger Thomas as a representation of how systemic racism constrains personal identity and life choices. Through Bigger's experiences, readers see how societal pressures and limited opportunities lead him to make desperate decisions. His struggle reflects the internal conflict faced by many African Americans, showing how external forces shape their lives and identities.
• Discuss the significance of the three parts of 'Native Son'—'Fear,' 'Flight,' and 'Fate'—in understanding Bigger Thomas's journey.
  • 'Native Son' is structured into three parts that each serve to illustrate key moments in Bigger Thomas's life. 'Fear' introduces his oppressive environment and internalized anxieties, setting the stage for his violent actions. In 'Flight,' he attempts to escape the consequences of his actions but ultimately confronts his reality. Lastly, 'Fate' deals with the repercussions of his choices, emphasizing themes of accountability within a racially charged society. This tripartite structure allows readers to grasp the complexities of Bigger's character development against a backdrop of societal challenges.
• Evaluate how 'Native Son' fits within the broader context of African American literature and its impact on social discourse regarding race relations in America.
  • 'Native Son' stands as a landmark work within African American literature due to its unvarnished exploration of race relations in America. It confronts readers with uncomfortable truths about racial oppression and economic inequality. The novel not only challenged existing literary norms but also sparked vital discussions about race, justice, and identity that continue to resonate today. Its impact can be seen in how subsequent writers address similar themes, making it an essential part of the canon that shapes ongoing dialogues about social justice and equality.

Related terms

Richard Wright: An influential African American author known for his works addressing racial themes, including 'Native Son' and 'Black Boy,' which provide insight into the struggles faced by African Americans in a racially divided society.

Bigger Thomas: The protagonist of 'Native Son,' whose experiences highlight the impact of systemic racism and poverty on individual identity and choices.

Social Realism: A literary movement that aims to depict everyday life and social issues in a realistic manner, often focusing on the struggles of marginalized communities.