Ibi Zoboi's 'Pride' Novel: Identity and Social Class

Ibi Zoboi's "Pride"

Ibi Zoboi's "Pride" is a modern retelling of Jane Austen's classic novel "Pride and Prejudice," set in the vibrant, diverse neighborhood of Bushwick, Brooklyn. This book explores themes of identity formation and social class struggles, all while highlighting the importance of community and the depth of individual experiences.

Identity Formation

In "Pride," the protagonist Zuri Benitez is a strong-willed, determined young woman who is deeply connected to her Haitian-Dominican roots. She is proud of who she is and where she comes from, and she is committed to improving her community in Bushwick. Zuri's pride is not just in her family or her neighborhood, but also in her Afro-Latino heritage. This sense of identity is a crucial aspect of her character development throughout the novel.

Zuri's identity is shaped by her experiences and her relationships with the people around her. As she interacts with the wealthy Darcy family who moves into her neighborhood, she learns to judge people based on their actions rather than their class or appearance. This realization is a significant part of her character growth, as she begins to see that people can be complex and multifaceted, just like her own identity.

Social Class Struggles

"Pride" addresses the issue of social class struggles through the lens of gentrification. As the wealthy Darcy family moves into Bushwick, they bring with them the promise of development and prosperity, but also the threat of displacement and change for the existing residents. Zuri and her community are confronted with the question of how to balance the benefits of progress with the potential loss of their neighborhood's unique character and identity.

The novel also touches on the idea of class and identity being interconnected. Zuri observes that her community and the Darcy family come from different worlds, and she struggles with the class divide that separates them. However, she also learns that understanding and empathy can bridge these gaps, as she begins to see the humanity in the Darcys and they, in turn, come to appreciate the value of her community.

Conclusion

Ibi Zoboi's "Pride" is a thought-provoking exploration of identity formation and social class struggles. Through the experiences of Zuri and her community, the novel offers a fresh perspective on the classic "Pride and Prejudice" story, while highlighting the importance of embracing diversity, understanding, and empathy. The book is a testament to the depth and complexity of individual experiences and the transformative power of community.