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Double Consciousness In Jean Toomer's Short Story 'Cane'

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Double consciousness is defined as a concept that describes an individual as having an identity divided into several parts. This makes it difficult for an individual to have a sole unified identity. As such, a person with double consciousness may be considered to have two thoughts, two souls or two un-reconciled perceptions towards a certain way of life. This context mainly related to racial relations mainly among American blacks or Negros. Historically, black Americans have always had issues with identity with the American culture. As such, double consciousness makes individuals to have a perception of their own self and world perception. ‘Cane’ by Jean Toomer depicts double consciousness based on the short stories it provides. Becky and Karintha’s are some of the short stories that portray double consciousness as will be discussed. To begin with, Becky’s story shows double consciousness as she is torn between two worlds making her ashamed of herself. Generally, Becky is a white woman who gave birth to mixed children …show more content…

Generally, the world views Karintha in one way while she also perceives herself in another way. To begin with, the world, mainly men in the southern community views Karintha as a prostitute or object for use. Karintha is described as a woman filled with beauty from her young age. “Her skin is like dusk, when the sun goes down.” (Toomer p. 3-5) The author describes her as beautiful young lady whose beauty can be compared to the scenery that is always present when the sun is setting down. As such, her skin blossoms make men both young and old to want to mate with her. “Men…wanted her…carrying beauty…” Everybody wanted Karintha and the old men even prayed for God to grant them youthful age. “…God grant us youth…old men” this shows that every community member saw Karintha as a prostitute and wanted to have sexual relationships with

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