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African American Literature

The Literary Canon

One of the most fundamental theories to the study of literature is that of the canon in literature, the works that exemplify literary concepts and genres. As defined by Key Concepts in Literary Theory (2013), canonization is, "Originally, the term canon referred to those books of the Bible that had been accepted by Church authorities as containing the word of God. More recently, in literary studies, it has come to mean the ‘great books’, or ‘great tradition’ of texts that everyone should study or know in order to be considered educated in literature – that is, works called ‘canonical’" (20). As a literary form, the anthology is a tool for accomplishing canonization. Those texts that symbolize the canon shape parameters of acceptable and accurate representation in addition to constructing a hierarchy of knowledge. It establishes a framework of right and wrong. The goal of this guide is to explore the African-American literary canon, which requires interrogation of popular authors and works. Readers must ask if that criticism is deserved and investigate why others seem to escape accountability.

Problems in Canonization

What makes literature problematic? Is it the general depictions of problems in literature, what the authors identifies as a problem, or how the authors solves the problem? Conflict- and its resolution (or lack thereof)- are essential components of narrative structure. Many works contain content that may be deemed offensive; but that is not always equivalent to bad writing. It is that framing, how the author constructs the narrative and the point, which creates aspects of contention. Prejudice relies on stereotypes, sweeping generalizations about diverse groups, to support its conclusions. The problem with problematic literature? It lacks a logical basis. Any aesthetic value that may derived can therefore only serve to prop up harmful ideas. These works attempt to disguise their weak logos with pathos, preying upon the audience with anger, fear, hatred, and jealousy. One of the most important precautions to take with problematic literature is that it alleges to propose new reasoning, but only offers anti-intellectualism in reality. 

Although their works may be celebrated, authors are not immune to criticism of their personal actions and opinions. Some may argue that artworks and ideas stand alone from their creators, while others consider them inseparable. Credibility is an essential element of literary analysis, even if one is inclined to judge a text based on creative achievement. If an author espouses bias, how can we trust anything that they say? Why do we insist on celebrating them? And what harmful ideas does their aesthetic creativity romanticize? Additionally, it is important not to uphold a figure as a symbol or an speaker for a diversity of experiences and perspectives. 

Social problem literature is closely associated with journalism and nonfiction writing during the Progressive Era of American politics and the Social Gospel reform movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This genre also has roots in the Puritan beliefs and Republican principles of the Colonial and Early National periods. In general, discussion of morals and values are common themes in American literature. It also provides a forum for debating the effectiveness of public policy and monitoring shifts in social attitudes. Additionally, a common topic in African American literature is strategies for racial progress and addressing potential setbacks. Particularly in the movements of abolitionism, The New Negro, and Civil Rights, the genre is a powerful tool for identifying problems and proposing solutions.

Anthologies

Web Resources

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