LANGSTON HUGHES AND HIS POETRY
Keywords:
Keywords: Langston Hughes, poetry, identity, race, social justice, African American experience, cultural heritage, empowerment, resilience, systemic racism, oppression, American society, intersectionality, universal themes, literary legacyAbstract
Abstract: This thesis examines the poetry of Langston Hughes, focusing on
themes of identity, race, and social justice prevalent in his works. Hughes's poetry
serves as a reflection of the African American experience in the early to mid-20th
century United States, celebrating cultural identity, critiquing social injustice, and
advocating for empowerment and resilience. Through a close analysis of selected
poems such as "The Negro Speaks of Rivers," "Harlem (Dream Deferred)," and
"Mother to Son," this study explores how Hughes navigates the complexities of race
and identity while addressing universal themes that resonate across cultures. By
contextualizing Hughes's poetry within the socio-political landscape of his time and
examining its enduring relevance in contemporary society, this thesis seeks to
illuminate the profound impact of Hughes's literary legacy on the ongoing struggle for
equality and social change.
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