Blog 4: Exploring Literary Analysis Ideas

I have grappled with ideas for the literary analysis paper. All of the books we have read so far were all interesting and explored aspects of African American life and history. Each author has their own distinct style. DuBois style is my favorite. In Souls of Black Folks, his language is plain. He does not hold back like Douglas and Larsen. Dubois concept of double consciousness is of particular interest to me, and I am leaning towards analyzing his text for this assignment. The focus of my analysis will be, how Dubois state of mind at the time the text was written uses the idea double consciousness to explain the inner turmoil experienced by African Americans, but also the strength that exist. The problem I am having is how to incorporate this into a working thesis that states my argument. Here are a couple possible options: Dubois Souls of Black Folks serves two purposes; to admonish White American for its treatment of Blacks, and to uplift a race by pointing out their strength and resiliency. The Souls of Black Folks, is a sociological examination of the concept of race in America. I argue, DuBois idea of double consciousness was his attempt to address the concept of a dominant culture, its effects on non- members, and how cultural differences does not amount to inferiority. Both options are viable. I m not sure which is a better direction. Support for each can be found in the text.