Topic: Power Dynamics and Social Hierarchies in Richard Wright's

The Native Son

Name: Bolarinwa Damilola David
Matric No: LCU/UG/21/19353,
Gbolagade Afolabi Umar
Matric No: LCU/UG/20/16889
Level: 400L
Department: English and literary studies
Faculty: Arts and Education

Background of Study

Richard Wright's "Native Son," published in 1940, stands as a seminal

work in American literature, offering a searing portrayal of race, power
dynamics, and social hierarchies in 1930s Chicago. Set against the
backdrop of pervasive racial segregation and economic inequality, the
novel illuminates the complex interplay between race, class, and power
that defined American society during this period.

The study of power dynamics and social hierarchies in Richard Wright's

"Native Son" aims to address the multifaceted ways in which race, class,
and privilege intersect to shape the experiences of individuals within
1930s Chicago society. By exploring the narrative through a critical lens,
this research seeks to examine how the novel depicts and critiques the
unequal distribution of power, the perpetuation of social hierarchies, and
the consequences of systemic oppression on marginalized communities.

Objective of the Study

The objective of this study is to conduct a thorough analysis of power

dynamics and social hierarchies depicted in Richard Wright's "Native
Son." Specifically, the study aims to:

1. To find out how Richard Wright depict power dynamics within

racially segregated Chicago society in “The Native Son”.
2. To find out the role that socioeconomic factors play in shaping social
hierarchies among characters in “The Native Son”.

3. To find out how race and class intersect to influence power dynamics
and social hierarchies in “The Native Son”.

4. To find out the ways Bigger Thomas, navigate and challenge the
existing power structures and social hierarchies in the novel.

Research Questions:1. How does Richard Wright depict power

dynamics within racially segregated Chicago society in "The Native
Son"?
2. What role do socioeconomic factors play in shaping social hierarchies
among the characters in "The Native Son"?
3. How do race and class intersect to influence power dynamics and
social hierarchies in "The Native Son"?
4. In what ways does the protagonist, Bigger Thomas, navigate and
challenge the existing power structures and social hierarchies in the
novel?

Significance of the Study

This study on power dynamics and social hierarchies in Richard Wright's

"Native Son" holds significant implications for literature, academia, and
society at large:

1. Literary Analysis: By examining the novel through the lens of power

dynamics and social hierarchies, this study contributes to a deeper
understanding of Wright's literary techniques, thematic concerns, and
narrative innovations. It offers insights into the ways in which literature
can serve as a tool for critiquing and interrogating social structures.

2. Cultural Relevance:"Native Son" remains a seminal work in American

literature, addressing issues of race, class, and power that continue to
resonate today. This study highlights the enduring relevance of the novel
and its themes, providing valuable context for contemporary discussions
of social justice and inequality.

3. Historical Understanding: Through an analysis of the novel's

historical context, this study sheds light on the lived experiences of
African Americans in 1930s Chicago and the broader socio-political
landscape of the era. It contributes to a more nuanced understanding of
the complexities of race relations and systemic oppression in American
history.

Statement of the Problem

While numerous studies have analyzed the power dynamics, social
hierarchies, and interpersonal relationships depicted in Richard Wright’s
Native Son, there remains a gap in understanding the ways in which
these elements intersect and contribute to the perpetuation of inequality
within the novel. Existing research has explored the manifestations of
racial prejudice and economic disparities, as well as the strategies of
resistance employed by the characters. However, there is limited analysis
of how these dynamics operate within interpersonal relationships and
how social hierarchies contribute to the marginalization and
disempowerment of certain groups.

Research Methodology

This Study employs a qualitative research design focusing on textual

analysis of Richard Wrights Native Son to explore the themes of power
dynamics, social hierarchies, and interpersonal relationships within the
novel. The primary data for the study consist of the text of Native Son
by Richard Wright. The data collection procedure involves a systematic
approach to reading and analyzing the text. The researchers will employ
thematic analysis to identify recurring motifs and concepts related to
power dynamics. Critical Race Theory (CRT) will be applied in this
study due to its comprehensive approach to understanding the
complexities of power dynamics, social hierarchies, and racial
oppression within the society .