Du Bois: Racial Identity and the Veil

Questions and Answers

How does Du Bois initially set up the contrast between whites and blacks in America?

He sets up the contrast by immediately saying 'between me and the other world.'

What is the unasked question that Du Bois intends to address in his writing?

How does it feel to be a problem?

What does it mean to 'be a problem'?

To 'be a problem' means to consistently be the object of people's contempt and hatred for no reason other than being yourself.

How does Du Bois recognize that he is different?

He recognizes his difference when a tall white girl refuses his card, making him realize he is shut out from their world by a vast veil. Signup and view all the answers

Explain the concept of the Veil.

The veil represents the huge divide between African Americans and white Americans. Signup and view all the answers

Describe the idea of 'two-ness'.

Feeling two conflicting identities at one time. Signup and view all the answers

Why is the power to vote so important to African-Americans?

It was the only way to fully own and perfect the liberty that partially been given them in the war. Signup and view all the answers

What vision replaces the push for the right to vote?

The ideal of 'book learning' and of intellectualism replaced the vote when that was denied them. Signup and view all the answers

How does Du Bois describe the progress of African-American learning?

He describes it as very, very slow, as 'weary work', and as a 'mountain path to Canaan'. Signup and view all the answers

How does education change African-Americans according to Du Bois?

African-Americans began to have a feeling that to attain their place in the world, they had to be themselves. Signup and view all the answers

What did African-Americans learn about their history through their education?

They learned that they had been 'handicapped' throughout history but are still expected to 'race' with others. Signup and view all the answers

What did Du Bois suggest African-Americans at the turn of the century should do in order to eliminate the problems their culture faces?

All of the ideals they had must be melted into one, growing and aiding each other. Signup and view all the answers

Du Bois argues that what white Americans were calling the 'Negro Problem' is not that at all. What does Du Bois identify as the problem?

Prejudice is the problem. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Contrast Between Whites and Blacks

Du Bois sets a stark contrast by expressing a sense of separation with the phrase "between me and the other world."
Highlights the emotional and social distance experienced by African Americans in relation to whites.

Question of Identity

Du Bois aims to answer the unasked question: "How does it feel to be a problem?"
This reflects the profound internal conflict faced by African Americans.

Being a Problem

To "be a problem" encompasses being viewed with contempt and hatred simply for one's identity, without having done anything wrong.

Awareness of Difference

Du Bois first recognizes his difference when a white girl rejects his card, marking a moment of epiphany about racial exclusion.
He describes feeling "shut out from their world by a vast veil," symbolizing this realization.

Concept of the Veil

The veil signifies the deep divide between African Americans and whites, representing perception and identity.
African Americans see themselves through the distorted lens of white societal views.

Idea of "Two-ness"

"Two-ness" conveys the struggle of holding dual identities, desiring to be both an American and an African American while facing societal rejection.

Importance of Voting

Voting is vital for African Americans to fully claim liberty gained post-war and to solidify their freedom in society.

Shift in Ideals

The pursuit of "book learning" and intellectual growth emerged as a substitute for the denied right to vote, indicating a shift in focus for the African American community.

Progress in Learning

Du Bois characterizes African American educational progress as slow and arduous, referring to it as "weary work" and likening it to a difficult journey towards freedom.

Impact of Education

Education instills a sense of self-worth among African Americans, leading to the lifting of the veil and the realization that they must embrace their true selves.

Historical Awareness

Through education, African Americans recognize the historical constraints placed upon them but also the expectation to compete with those unaffected by slavery.

Path to Solve Cultural Issues

Du Bois suggests that African Americans should integrate their ideals of emancipation, political power, and education to overcome cultural challenges, creating a cohesive community.

Misunderstanding of the 'Negro Problem'

Du Bois identifies prejudice as the core issue, arguing that America must confront the impacts of slavery and social prejudice rather than blaming African Americans for societal problems.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Explore the themes of racial identity and social separation presented by W.E.B. Du Bois. This quiz delves into his experiences of being perceived as 'the problem' and the emotional distance created by racial barriers. Understand the significance of the veil as a powerful symbol of exclusion.