Week Two: Harlem Renaissance Writers: Du Bois & Jean Toomer (Jan. 18-24)

W.E.B. Du Bois

“The Negro Mind Reaches Out”

Answerany twoquestions.

  1. What does “shadow” represent in the reference to Portugal, Belgium, France and England?
  2. Cite two key issues addressed by Du Bois that remain significant in modern discussions on global economic and politics.
  3. Does Du Bois present the educated Black colonial subject as something of a tragic hero? Explain briefly.

Jean Toomer

“Bona & Paul”

Answerany twoquestions.

  1. Aside from Paul, does any other character in the story exhibit double-consciousness attributes? Explain.
  1. In your opinion, why does Bona walk away after Paul returns to Crimson Gardens to talk to the Negro doorman?
  1. Why is it important for Paul to explain his new perceptions to the Negro doorman?

“Balo”

Answerany twoquestions.

  1. Even though the White and Black farmers are affected by similar economic and agricultural problems, why do they remain segregated?
  1. What is the significance of religion in the story?
  1. From the character interactions that take place, what type of community does Toomer depict?

This assignment is due on Sunday, Jan 22, 2016

Part 2

Length of essay: 600-700 words(please do not exceed word limit)

America is often described as the archetypal melting pot. Notwithstanding, it is common to come across references to places and events that suggest a preservation of ancestral and religious values associated with distinct racial, ethnic and national groups. Examples are: China Town, New Glarus (community of Swiss descendants in Wisconsin), Saint Patrick’s Day, African American Beauty Pageant, Hanukah and a range of restaurants that boast menus from diverse backgrounds. Some would argue that citing events and institutions as “Black,” “Jewish,” “Hispanic,” etc. are divisive and should be replaced by “American” as a unifying identity.

What are your thoughts on this subject?With the progress made in integration, race relations and Civil Rights, is there justification for the continued existence of academic resources, institutions and events that are described along racial, ethnic or religious lines? At what point are such categorizations valid and at what point are they socially detrimental?You may consider but are not limited to the following questions: Is it realistic to imagine a so-called “color blind” American society devoid of ethnic and racial designations? Do such designations serve any useful, informative purpose? Are they discriminatory or could they, at some point, become discriminatory? Think about this class, which is labeled African American? Would it be more practical to include it in a wider, inclusive American literature class?

Your essay should be well organized and developed with articulate and compelling arguments. You are also encouraged to proofread your work carefully in order to avoid grammatical and other mechanical errors. Please do not exceed the word limit. The extent to which you adhere to the above guidelines will determine your final grade.

This assignment is due on Sunday, Jan 24, 2016by 11:30 PM EST.