How Does Native Son Novel Address The American Dream?

2025-04-17 19:14:49 308

4 Answers

Leah
Leah
2025-04-18 06:41:58
The American Dream in 'Native Son' is a double-edged sword. Bigger Thomas is constantly reminded of what he’s supposed to achieve—success, stability, respect—but the reality is, he’s set up to fail. The novel shows how the Dream is only accessible to some, while others are left to fight for scraps. Bigger’s job as a chauffeur for the Daltons is a perfect example. He’s in their world, but he’ll never be part of it.

Wright uses Bigger’s story to highlight the psychological toll of this disparity. Bigger’s anger and fear aren’t just personal; they’re systemic. The Dream isn’t just unattainable for him—it’s a constant reminder of his inferiority. The novel doesn’t offer solutions, but it forces readers to question the fairness of a system that promises so much and delivers so little.
Lila
Lila
2025-04-20 01:40:02
In 'Native Son', the American Dream is a trap. Bigger Thomas is told he can achieve anything, but the reality is, he’s confined by his race and class. The novel shows how the Dream is a myth for African Americans, a promise that’s never fulfilled. Bigger’s life is a series of closed doors, from his cramped apartment to his dead-end job. His violent actions are a response to a system that denies him any real opportunity.

Wright’s portrayal of the Dream is unflinching. It’s not just about Bigger’s personal failure; it’s about the failure of a society that claims to offer equality but perpetuates inequality. The novel is a powerful critique of the American Dream, showing how it’s built on the backs of those it excludes.
Xenia
Xenia
2025-04-21 14:44:59
The American Dream in 'Native Son' is a lie. Bigger Thomas is born into a world that denies him the chance to succeed. The novel shows how systemic racism and poverty make the Dream impossible for African Americans. Bigger’s life is a constant struggle against barriers he can’t overcome. His actions, like the accidental killing of Mary Dalton, are a result of this oppression. Wright’s novel is a stark reminder that the Dream isn’t for everyone.
Isla
Isla
2025-04-22 01:03:29
In 'Native Son', the American Dream is portrayed as a cruel illusion for African Americans, especially through the life of Bigger Thomas. The novel dives deep into systemic racism and economic disparity, showing how Bigger’s environment traps him in a cycle of poverty and violence. The American Dream promises opportunity and success, but for Bigger, it’s a mirage. His aspirations are crushed by societal barriers, and his actions—like the accidental killing of Mary Dalton—are born out of desperation, not malice.

Wright doesn’t just critique the Dream; he exposes its hypocrisy. Bigger’s story is a mirror to the systemic oppression that denies Black Americans the chance to even dream. The novel forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about race and class in America. It’s not just Bigger’s failure; it’s the failure of a system that claims equality but perpetuates inequality. The American Dream, as depicted in 'Native Son', is a lie for those born into oppression.
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