Black Masculinity and Vulnerability in the Novels of Richard Wright

This research paper explores the portrayal of black masculinity intertwined with vulnerability in the works of Richard Wright, focusing on "Native Son" and "Black Boy." It provides a comprehensive analysis of the historical and social context in which Wright wrote, examining societal expectations, stereotypes, and the impact of systemic racism and socio-economic challenges on black men. Through a close examination of key characters such as Bigger Thomas and Richard Wright himself, the paper deal with the interplay between strength and weakness, both emotional and physical, and the role of vulnerability in shaping their identities and actions. The paper discusses how Wright's portrayal challenges traditional notions of black masculinity by highlighting the complexities and struggles faced by black men in a racially oppressive society. It reviews critical and scholarly responses to Wright's work, showcasing varying interpretations and debates surrounding his depiction of black male identity. Wright's exploration of vulnerability offers a nuanced understanding of black masculinity, emphasizing the human condition's multifaceted nature.

Richard Wright, Black Masculinity, Vulnerability, Systemic Racism

1. Wright, Richard. Native Son. Harper & Brothers, 1940. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

2. Wright, Richard. Black Boy. Harper & Brothers, 1945. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

3. Fabre, Michel. The Unfinished Quest of Richard Wright. University of Illinois Press, 1993. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

4. Hakutani, Yoshinobu. Richard Wright and Racial Discourse. University of Missouri Press, 1996. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

5. Margolies, Edward. The Art of Richard Wright. Southern Illinois University Press, 1969. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

6. Stepto, Robert B. From Behind the Veil: A Study of Afro-American Narrative. University of Illinois Press, 1979. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

7. Davis, Charles T., and Henry Louis Gates, Jr., editors. The Slave's Narrative. Oxford University Press, 1985. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

8. Kinnamon, Keneth, and Michel Fabre, editors. Conversations with Richard Wright. University Press of Mississippi, 1993. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

9. Rowley, Hazel. Richard Wright: The Life and Times. Henry Holt, 2001. [Google Scholar] [Crossref]

• The Dynamic of Religious Pluralism and Cultural Identity in Rongmei Naga (Kabui) Society
• Effects of Social-Economic Empowerment of Teenage Mothers and Nurture Care. A Case of Kimbilio Hope Centre, Machakos, Kenya
• Gendering Caste and Casteing Gender: A Study of Social Sickness in Uma Chakravarti’s Gendering Caste: Through a Feminist Lens
• Counselling as Social Work for Women Empowerment in Akwa Ibom State: A Case Study of Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area. Implications for Counsellors
• Motherhood: Inclusion and Containment, A Case Study