Community values

Definition

Community values refer to the shared beliefs, norms, and principles that shape the identity and behavior of a group of people. These values guide how members of a community interact with one another and influence cultural expressions, including literature, art, and social practices. Community values play a crucial role in shaping individual and collective identities, fostering a sense of belonging, and informing social justice movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Community values are often rooted in historical experiences, including oppression and resilience, which significantly influence cultural identity.
2. In African American literature before 1900, community values served as a vehicle for expressing resistance against systemic oppression and celebrating cultural heritage.
3. Literary works often reflect the communal struggles and triumphs that shape the identity of African Americans, emphasizing solidarity and collective action.
4. Community values help preserve oral traditions and storytelling practices that are vital for passing down cultural knowledge through generations.
5. The exploration of community values in literature often highlights the tension between individual desires and collective responsibilities within a community.

Review Questions

• How do community values shape the themes found in African American literature before 1900?
  • Community values are essential in shaping the themes found in African American literature by reflecting the shared beliefs and experiences of the community. Authors often draw upon these values to address issues like racial injustice, resilience, and the importance of solidarity. By weaving community values into their narratives, writers create works that resonate deeply with readers, highlighting the collective struggles and triumphs of African Americans.
• In what ways did community values inform social justice movements within African American literature during this period?
  • Community values played a pivotal role in informing social justice movements within African American literature by providing a framework for understanding systemic oppression and advocating for change. Literature served as both a reflection of community struggles and a call to action for social equality. Writers used their platforms to articulate the need for justice and unity among African Americans, effectively mobilizing their communities toward collective efforts for civil rights.
• Evaluate the impact of community values on the development of cultural identity in African American literature before 1900.
  • The impact of community values on the development of cultural identity in African American literature before 1900 is profound. These shared beliefs fostered a sense of belonging and pride among individuals facing racial discrimination. Through literature, authors explored the complexities of their identities influenced by community values, enabling them to connect personal narratives with broader social movements. This not only shaped individual identities but also reinforced a collective consciousness that continues to influence African American culture today.

Related terms

Cultural Identity: The sense of belonging to a particular cultural group, shaped by shared traditions, language, religion, and experiences.

Social Justice: The pursuit of fairness and equality within society, often focusing on issues related to race, gender, and class.

Collective Memory: The shared pool of knowledge and information that is held collectively by a group, influencing their identity and values over time.