Essays on Native Son

Prompt Examples for "Native Son" Essays

• Bigger Thomas as a Tragic Hero

  Analyze the character of Bigger Thomas as a tragic hero, considering his circumstances, choices, and the inevitable tragic outcome in the novel.

• Racial Injustice and Social Commentary

  Discuss how "Native Son" serves as a powerful social commentary on racial injustice, discrimination, and systemic racism in 1930s America.

• The Impact of Poverty and Urban Life

  Examine the influence of poverty and urban life on the characters' actions and motivations, and how these factors contribute to the unfolding of the narrative.

• Bigger's Evolution as a Character

  Trace the evolution of Bigger Thomas as a character throughout the novel, considering his psychological journey and changing perspectives.

• Fear as a Motivating Force

  Analyze the role of fear as a motivating force in Bigger's actions and decisions, and how it impacts the other characters in the story.

• Symbolism in "Native Son"

  Discuss the use of symbolism in the novel, including symbols like the rat, the apartment, and the snow, and their significance to the narrative.

• Psychological and Societal Pressures

  Examine the psychological and societal pressures that Bigger faces as a young black man in a racially divided society, and how these pressures shape his actions.

• The Role of the Media

  Discuss the portrayal of the media in "Native Son" and how it influences public opinion, further exacerbating the racial tensions in the story.

• Comparative Analysis with Other Literary Works

  Compare and contrast "Native Son" with other literary works that explore themes of race, identity, and social justice, highlighting similarities and differences.

• Author's Message and Impact

  Examine the author's intended message in "Native Son" and its impact on the reader's understanding of racial issues and the human condition.