Introduction
Literature conveys various aspects of human life with unwavering precision, allowing us to delve into the world of characters and their personal experiences. One such work is Tony Morrison’s novel The Bluest Eye, which explores the complex theme of racism, belonging, and self-esteem among African Americans in 20th-century American society. This essay will discuss the significance and symbolic power of blackness, ownership of a home for people of color, and the role that Pecola and her family play in the narrative.
Main Body
In the novel “The Bluest Eye,” being black is an essential thematic motif. The author considers black skin a physical characteristic and a symbolic representation of social status, self-esteem, and cultural identity. The main protagonist, Pecola, reflects the internal struggles and suffering of black women trying to overcome societal prejudices and beauty standards imposed upon them (Morrison, 2007). Being black in the novel is also associated with homeownership for people of color. The home represents a physical and symbolic realm where African Americans feel protected, accessible, and autonomous (Morrison, 2007). Owning a home allows black individuals to construct their own identity, preserve their culture and traditions, and strengthen their self-esteem in a society where their status and rights are restricted.
Pecola and her family play a significant role in the novel “The Bluest Eye”. They serve as an example of how the system of inequality and racism influences black individuals, eroding their self-respect and distorting their perception of beauty (Morrison, 2007). Pecola considers herself unattractive because of her black skin and dreams of having blue eyes, as she thinks it will make her desirable and help her overcome her social isolation.
Conclusion
In “The Bluest Eye”, Tony Morrison examines the intricate issues of racism, identity, and self-worth within the African American community. Blackness symbolizes the struggle against prejudices, limitations, and beauty standards imposed by society. Homeownership for people of color represents an essential symbol of autonomy, identity, and protection. Pecola and her family serve as a vivid example of how the system of racism undermines self-esteem and distorts the perception of beauty for black individuals. This novel is a stunning literary work and a powerful reminder of the need to combat racism and strive for justice and fairness for all people, regardless of their skin color.
Reference
Morrison, T. (2007). The Bluest Eye. Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group.