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Identity In Mcbride's Color Of Water

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In Color of Water many of the characters, especially Ruth, try to fulfill the American dream or the liberty to attain individuality. Ruth Shilsky wants to break away from her family’s ties to the Jewish culture and money. Thus, her search for identity began and through this she discovered Jesus. From Jesus Ruth - now Ruth McBride-Jordan - discovered her identity; one that revolved around education and God. As said by James McBride, “I asked her (Ruth) if I was black or white. She replied You are a human being. Educate yourself or you'll be a nobody!” Ruth had achieved her American Dream and she wanted her children to accomplish that feat too. Although both novels stand as effective portrayers of the theme of identity, James’s intricately woven

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