Product Description: Slavery is a central feature of American history, one with which the nation still has not come fully to terms. In this book, that seminal topic is examined in a fresh way—through literature. Organized chronologically to show evolving attitudes toward American slavery in the 19th century, the work focuses on four key 19th-century texts that are frequently taught, using them as a gateway for understanding this critical period and why slavery had to be destroyed if the Union was to be maintained...read more

Examines Richard Wright's life, his literary heritage, and six works from 'Uncle Tom's Children' to 'Lawd Today!', discusses themes, style, points of view, and setting, and offers analyses from different critical approaches.

Primary sources explain the cultural and political era of the novel and examine Wright's autobiography and the influences on his life

Traces briefly the author's life, examines his novels and other writings, and establishes his place in American literature