Sonny's Blues Historical Context

Words: 406
Pages: 2
Open Document
James Baldwin’s “Sonny’s Blues” reflects many similarities between the setting, historical context, characters, and social context in real life, as well as some differences. Firstly, the setting of Harlem in “Sonny’s Blues” is accurate to the actual Harlem of New York. The Harlem within the story is predominantly composed of African Americans, which is also true of the real Harlem. The story also is accurate to the period as it follows the general timeline of events within America as they story takes place between the world wars and the abolishment of segregation. This ties into the historical context as the story is similar to reality within the scope of heroin throughout New York, but specifically Harlem. According to Szalavitz, “heroin dealers
Show More

Related Documents: Sonny's Blues Historical Context

Everyday Use, By James Baldwin

The threads of individuality and culture intertwine in the stories of “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker and “Sonny’s Blues” by James Baldwin. From the rural South to the bustling streets of Harlem, each of the stories portrays how the search for personal identity and cultural identity affects different characters. Both explore the tenuous relationship between family members against the backdrop of African American struggles and the journey of self discovery, yet one embraces both the cultural and personal…

Words 968 - Pages 4

fiction paper

characters were often seen directly violating standards for women at the time and challenged societal norms. Analyze the two heroines of these stories as they experience their epiphanies and discuss how this behavior was in direct conflict with historical context. Note: You may opt to just discuss one of Chopin's stories. "All About Suicide:" Create an analytical essay where you discuss at least three or more characteristics of experimental fiction that appear in this story. Consider the effect…

Words 968 - Pages 4