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Overview

Native Son, a novel by American author Richard Wright, was published in 1940. It is a searing exploration of systemic racism and its impact on Bigger Thomas, a young Black man in 1930s Chicago. Trapped in poverty, Bigger’s life takes a tragic turn when he accidentally kills a wealthy white woman. Native Son delves into the psychological turmoil as Bigger confronts the racial prejudices and societal pressures that shape his fate. Wright’s groundbreaking work remains a powerful examination of the dehumanizing effects of racial oppression and a seminal work of African American literature. 

Read the full book summary, an in-depth character analysis of Bigger Thomas, or explanations of important quotes from Native Son.

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