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?
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Explain the concept of the Veil.
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Describe the idea of 'two-ness'.
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Why is the power to vote so important to African-Americans?
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What vision replaces the push for the right to vote?
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How does Du Bois describe the progress of African-American learning?
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How does education change African-Americans according to Du Bois?
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What did African-Americans learn about their history through their education?
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What did Du Bois suggest African-Americans at the turn of the century should do in order to eliminate the problems their culture faces?
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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?
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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.
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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.