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W. E. B Dubois Double Consciousness Essay

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Double Conciseness America was built on the idea of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. (Deceleration of Independence US 1776) However, this right has been denied to African Americans throughout history because of the color of their skin. Black people were looked at harshly in society because of their race. W.E.B. DuBois was considered one of the most famous and influential civil rights activists during the twentieth century. DuBois was the first African American to earn a Ph.D. from Harvard University. He contributed to African American literature with his literary works. Through his literature, he coined the term “double consciousness.” Double consciousness was first explored in DuBois’ book, The Souls of the Black Folks. “Double …show more content…
Lula is seductive throughout the play, she is a representation of how society seduced Clay into assimilating himself within the white culture. In the play, Clay is seen wearing a fancy suit, which was not typical for black men to wear during this time period.
“LULA What’ve you got that jacket and tie on in all this heat for? And why’re wearing a jacket and tie like that? Did your people ever burn witches or start revolution over the price of tea? Boy, those narrow-shoulder clothes come from a tradition you ought to feel oppressed by. A three-button suit. What right do you have to be wearing a three-button suit and striped tie? Your grandfather was a slave, he didn’t go to Harvard.” (The Dutchman)
Clay’s suit is a representation of how he is trying to assimilate into white society. By wearing a fancy suit he believes he will fit into the white society. Clay is playing a part and only acting this way because society wants him to, which represents double consciousness. Clay is not looking at himself a negro, he is looking at himself as a black man who must assimilate into the white society. He is trying to create the image that he believes society wants him to

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