Oppression

Definition

Oppression refers to the systemic and pervasive mistreatment and exploitation of individuals or groups, often based on characteristics such as race, gender, class, or sexuality. It manifests through social, economic, and political inequalities that limit individuals' freedoms and opportunities. In literature, oppression is frequently depicted as a major theme, showcasing the struggles of marginalized communities against the forces that seek to dehumanize and control them.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Richard Wright's 'Native Son', oppression is illustrated through the character of Bigger Thomas, whose experiences reflect the crushing weight of systemic racism and economic disadvantage in urban America.
2. 'Native Son' shows how oppression leads to violence and despair, highlighting the psychological effects on individuals trapped in oppressive circumstances.
3. Other notable authors often explore themes of oppression through various lenses, including gender, class, and sexuality, showing how these intersections create unique challenges for different groups.
4. In 'The Underground Railroad', Colson Whitehead uses oppression as a driving force in the narrative, showcasing the brutal realities of slavery and the struggle for freedom.
5. The portrayal of oppression in literature serves not only as a reflection of societal issues but also as a call to action for readers to confront and challenge these injustices.

Review Questions

• How does Richard Wright illustrate the concept of oppression through the character of Bigger Thomas in 'Native Son'?
  • Richard Wright illustrates oppression through Bigger Thomas by depicting his life in a racially segregated society that limits his choices and opportunities. Bigger's actions are shaped by the oppressive forces around him, including systemic racism and economic hardship, leading to feelings of anger and hopelessness. The novel highlights how such oppressive conditions can distort an individual's sense of identity and morality, ultimately resulting in tragic consequences.
• Discuss how other notable authors use themes of oppression in their works and how these themes connect to larger social issues.
  • Other notable authors address themes of oppression by exploring different dimensions such as gender, class, and sexuality. For instance, writers may depict characters who face discrimination based on their gender identity or economic status, highlighting how these factors intersect with race. This connection to larger social issues emphasizes that oppression is not monolithic but rather multifaceted, affecting various groups differently while also uniting them in shared struggles against injustice.
• Analyze how Colson Whitehead's depiction of oppression in 'The Underground Railroad' serves as both a historical account and a commentary on contemporary societal issues.
  • Colson Whitehead's 'The Underground Railroad' portrays oppression through its vivid representation of slavery, emphasizing the brutality and dehumanization experienced by enslaved people. By incorporating fantastical elements like an actual railroad beneath the ground, Whitehead creates a powerful narrative that resonates with historical realities while inviting reflection on ongoing issues of racial inequality today. The novel’s exploration of escape from bondage parallels current struggles against systemic racism, demonstrating that while progress has been made, the fight against oppression remains critical.

Related terms

Systemic Racism: A form of racism that is embedded in the policies and practices of institutions, leading to the marginalization of racial minorities.

Social Justice: The pursuit of a society where all individuals have equal rights and opportunities, aiming to address issues of inequality and oppression.

Alienation: A feeling of disconnection or estrangement experienced by individuals who are marginalized or oppressed within society.