Social Injustice Invisibility and Suppression Among...

A distinctive feature in post-1865 American literature is the recurrent motif of suppression among minority groups in the United States. The literature provided in the Heath Anthology reflects minority citizens like African Americans, Hispanics, and women. American literature during the 20th century serves as a critical lens to examine the social injustices faced by minority groups. Minority artists use literature to examine and redefine their pre-determined role in society. The critically acclaimed African American scholar, W.E.B. DuBois, contends the strife of minority groups (specifically African Americans) in the United States. DuBois sets the opening scene for other African American literary artists who use literature as a means of†¦show more content†¦According to Pietris’ self-reflection it leads to a solution for Hispanics (more specifically Puerto Ricans) living in the United States. In Pietri’s poem he claims, â€Å"if only they [Puerto Ricans] / had used the white supremacy bibles / for toilet paper purpose / and made their latino souls / the only religion of their race† (Pietri lines 277-280). Pietri in these lines is lamenting the destruction of Hispanic heritage. He claims that the notions of the American dream are forced upon them. That in order to move forward as a race they have to consciously refuse to assimilate. Pietri is asking all Hispanic-Americans (or any minority group) to turn to their true values. An idealized world that is balanced between Hispanic and American culture is not difficult to achieve if an individual or a group of minorities acknowledge both of their identities. Another common minority group represented in the Heath Anthology is women. Women, unfortunately, face the same suppression and scrutiny as African Americans and Hispanics. The distinctive common occurrence in women’s literature is the concept of invisibility and suppression. In Maxine Hong Kingston’s’ short story No Name Woman, she incorporates American and Chinese culture and the expectations of women in society. The protagonist tells of a story of her aunt who did not follow the towns’ expectations of child bearing. As the protagonist delves into the fact, she reveals subtle information making the readerShow MoreRelatedOne Significant Change That Has Occurred in the World Between 1900 and 2005. Explain the Impact This Change Has Made on Our Lives and Why It Is an Important Change.163893 Words   |  656 Pagesperspectives on the past) Includes bibliographical references. ISBN 978-1-4399-0269-1 (cloth : alk. paper)—ISBN 978-1-4399-0270-7 (paper : alk. paper)—ISBN 978-1-4399-0271-4 (electronic) 1. History, Modern—20th century. 2. Twentieth century. 3. Social history—20th century. 4. World politics—20th century. I. Adas, Michael, 1943– II. American Historical Association. D421.E77 2010 909.82—dc22 2009052961 The paper used in this publication meets the requirements of the American National Standard