Power Dynamics and Social Hierarchies in Richard Wright’s The Native Son

BOLARINWA Damilola David

LCU/UG/21/19353

GBOLAGADE Afolabi Umar

LCU/UG/20/16889
 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

Richard Wright's 1940 Native Son is a significant piece of American literature that provides a

compelling portrayal of race, power dynamics, and social structures in 1930s Chicago. The novel

illuminates the complicated relationships between race, class, and power in a time marked by

economic struggles and racial prejudice in Chicago. During this time, African Americans faced

widespread discrimination and limited prospects for progress, as characters like Bigger Thomas

vividly illustrate. By exploring power dynamics and social hierarchies, “Native Son” examines

the differences between marginalized African Americans and privileged white individuals like

Mary and Mr. Dalton. The book's narrative style and symbolism highlight the effects of

oppression and injustice on society. Through its critical acclaim and enduring influence as a

cultural touchstone in American literature, Native Son remains a catalyst for conversations about

race, power, and representation, offering a sustained examination of societal challenges that

remain relevant today. In the novel, power dynamics play a crucial role in shaping the lives of

the characters and the overall narrative. One of the central themes explored is the power

imbalance between the white majority and the African American minority in 1930s Chicago.

Bigger Thomas, the protagonist, is a young black man who becomes embroiled in a series of

events that expose the oppressive power structures at play.

One aspect of power dynamics in the novel is the systemic racism that pervades society. African

Americans in the 1930s faced discrimination and limited opportunities due to their race. They
were subjected to racial segregation, both in terms of housing and employment. Bigger, as an

African American, experiences the oppressive force of this racism throughout the story. He is

constantly aware of his marginalized position in society, which fuels his feelings of anger and

frustration.

Another aspect of power dynamics is the economic disparity between the wealthy and the poor.

Bigger and his family live in poverty, struggling to make ends meet. This economic inequality

further reinforces the power imbalance, as the wealthy white characters hold economic power

and control over the lives of the less fortunate. The Daltons, a wealthy white family, employ

Bigger as their chauffeur, highlighting the stark contrast in their social positions.

The power dynamics in "Native Son" also extend to gender relations. Bigger's interactions with

women, particularly Mary Dalton and Bessie Mears, reveal the intersectionality of power

dynamics. Bigger's relationships with these women are influenced by their respective racial and

social positions. The power dynamics between Bigger and Mary are complicated by their racial

differences, while his relationship with Bessie is characterized by the power dynamics of gender

and class.

Overall, Richard Wright's "Native Son" offers a searing critique of the power dynamics and

social hierarchies that defined 1930s Chicago. The novel exposes the oppressive forces of

racism, economic inequality, and gender dynamics, shedding light on the complex interplay

between power, race, and social class during that time.

In Richard Wright's "Native Son," social hierarchies are prominently featured and play a crucial

role in the novel's exploration of power dynamics and societal structures that perpetuate

inequality and oppression. The book showcases various examples of these hierarchies, including
racial hierarchy, class hierarchy, and gender hierarchy. For instance, the racial hierarchy is

evident from the start as Bigger Thomas, a young black man living in poverty, faces

disadvantages due to his race. Additionally, class distinctions are highlighted through the

contrast between wealthy white characters like Mr. and Mrs. Dalton and Bigger's lower-class

status. Gender dynamics are also examined, particularly in Bigger's interactions with Mary

Dalton, which reveal power imbalances based on gender. These examples illustrate how social

hierarchies influenced by race, class, and gender impact the characters' experiences in "Native

Son" and shed light on societal injustices and inequalities according to Richard Wright.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

While numerous studies have analyzed the power dynamics, social hierarchies, and interpersonal

relationships depicted in Richard Wright’s Native Son, there remains a gap in understanding the

ways in which these elements intersect and contribute to the perpetuation of inequality within the

novel. Existing research has explored the manifestations of racial prejudice and economic

disparities, as well as the strategies of resistance employed by the characters. However, there is

limited analysis of how these dynamics operate within interpersonal relationships and how social

hierarchies contribute to the marginalization and disempowerment of certain groups. This study

seeks to address this gap by examining the interplay between power dynamics, social hierarchies,

and interpersonal relationships in Native Son, thereby providing a more comprehensive

understanding of the mechanisms through which oppression is produced and contested within the

novel’s socio-political setting.

1.3 Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of this study is to analyze the power dynamics and social hierarchies depicted in

Richard Wright’s Native Son, with a focus on understanding how these forces intersect and

perpetuate inequality within the novel’s socio-political context. The specific objectives are to:

a) analyze the dynamics of power within interpersonal relationships in Native Son;

b) assess the ways in which the characters in Native Son negotiate and resist the oppressive

forces that constrain their lives;

c) examine the portrayal of social hierarchies in Native Son; and

d) analyze how social hierarchies contribute to marginalization and disempowerment of

certain groups within the novel.

1.4 Research Questions

1. How do power dynamics manifest within interpersonal relationships in Native Son?

2. In what ways do the characters in Native Son struggle and resist the oppressive forces of

racism, classism, and other societal constraints?

3. How are social hierarchies depicted in Native Son?

4. How do social hierarchies contribute to the marginalization and disempowerment of

certain groups within Native Son?

1.5 Significance of the Study

In the field of literary studies, this research holds significant value as it offers a deeper

understanding of Richard Wright’s Native Son by unraveling the power dynamics, social

hierarchies, and interpersonal relationships within the novel. By exploring these aspects, scholars

can gain insights into the complexities of Wright’s narrative and its implications for broader

literary movements and themes. This analysis contributes to the ongoing discourse surrounding

African American literature, allowing for a critical examination of how writers like Wright

critique societal structures of power and oppression.

Linguistics scholars can also benefit from this study as it provides an opportunity to explore the

language and discourse patterns used by the characters in Native Son to negotiate their positions

within the social hierarchy. By analyzing the linguistic strategies employed by characters from

different social backgrounds, researchers can gain insights into how language reflects and shapes

power dynamics and social relations. This research enhances our understanding of the

intersection between language, power, and identity, thereby contributing to broader debates

within the field of sociolinguistics.

In the field of education, this study offers valuable insights into how literature can be used as a

tool for teaching critical thinking and fostering discussions about social justice and equity.

Educators can utilize the themes and concepts explored in Native Son to engage students in

meaningful conversations about race, class, and power dynamics in American society. By

incorporating diverse perspectives and literary texts into the curriculum, educators can help
students develop a deeper understanding of historical and contemporary issues while promoting

empathy and critical consciousness.

From a political standpoint, this research sheds light on the ways in which power operates within

society and the implications for marginalized communities. By analyzing how power dynamics

and social hierarchies are depicted in Native Son, policymakers and activists can gain insights

into the systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality and oppression. This understanding is crucial

for developing more inclusive and equitable policies and advocating for social change that

addresses the root causes of injustice.

Lastly, in the field of sociology, this study contributes to our understanding of the complexities

of race, class, and power relations in American society. By examining the dynamics of power

within interpersonal relationships and the ways in which social hierarchies contribute to

marginalization, sociologists can gain insights into the mechanisms through which inequality is

produced and maintained. This research provides a framework for analyzing broader social

structures and their impacts on individual lives, thereby informing efforts to address systemic

injustice and promote social equity.

1.6 Scope of the Study

The scope of this study encompasses a detailed analysis of power dynamics, social hierarchies,

and interpersonal relationships within Richard Wright’s Native Son. Specifically, the research

will focus on examining the manifestations of racial prejudice, economic disparities, and gender

dynamics portrayed in the novel, as well as the strategies of resistance employed by the
characters. The study will explore how these elements intersect and interact to shape the lives of

the characters, particularly the protagonist, Bigger Thomas, within the socio-political context of

1930s America. Additionally, the research will investigate the portrayal of social hierarchies in

the novel and analyze their contribution to the marginalization and disempowerment of certain

groups. While the primary focus will be on the textual analysis of Native Son, the study may also

draw on relevant secondary sources and theoretical frameworks to provide a comprehensive

understanding of the themes and concepts explored in the novel. However, it is important to note

that the study will not extend to examining the reception of Native Son over time or its

adaptation into other mediums, as these aspects fall beyond the defined scope of this research.

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

Systemic racism

Systemic racism is a scientifically tractable phenomenon, urgent for cognitive scientists to

address. This tutorial reviews the built-in systems that undermine life opportunities and

outcomes by racial category, with a focus on challenges to Black Americans. From American

colonial history, explicit practices and policies reinforced disadvantage across all domains of life,

beginning with slavery, and continuing with vastly subordinated status. Racially segregated

housing creates racial isolation, with disproportionate costs to Black Americans’ opportunities,

networks, education, wealth, health, and legal treatment. These institutional and societal systems

build-in individual bias and racialized interactions, resulting in systemic racism. Racism

represents the biases of the powerful (Jones, 1971 )⁴, as the biases of the powerless have little

consequence (Fiske, 1993 )⁵.

Power Dynamics

Power dynamics refer to the inherent structures and influences of power that exist between

individuals and groups within a given context. This idea extends beyond mere authority or

control, delving into more nuanced territories of influence, dominance, privilege, and

communication styles. In its simplest form, power can be understood as the ability to influence

or control outcomes. The possession of power can come from a variety of sources - from formal

structures like hierarchies and job titles to less tangible aspects like knowledge, charisma, and

social capital. Understanding the different types of power - such as legitimate, reward, coercive,

expert, and referent power - helps us see how these dynamics might play out in various

scenarios.1

Social Hierarchies

According to Sidanius and Pratto (1999)⁶, social hierarchies are systems of social organization

in which certain people have a higher social status than others. To be more precise, these

systems stratify people based on their membership in a group (Axte et al 2014)⁷; Jost and

associates. 2004; Pratto and Sidanius, 1999)⁶. High-status groups in socially stratified

societies have more access to material and social resources than low-status groups, which

results in different opportunities and outcomes. Low status individuals, for instance, are

more likely to experience physical and verbal abuse (Katz-Wise and Hyde 2012)⁸, as well as

discrimination in hiring practices (Parker et al. 2016)⁹, and the criminal justice system will

treat them more harshly (Wu 2016)¹⁰

1
 CHAPTER TWO

Review of related Literature

A study of relevant literature on Power dynamics and social hierarchies in Richard

Wright's the native son is presented in this chapter. As a result it considers other
nuclei that are thought to be relevant to this research. Conceptual studies on the
concept were presented based on Richard Wright's Native Son as it relates to
power dynamics and social hierarchies in today's Chicago . In addition, this section
captures the Theoretical and Conceptual Framework.

2.1 Conceptual Studies on the Concept

2.1.1 Racism

Racism is institutionalised and widespread in "Native Son," which shapes Bigger

Thomas, the main character, and other black characters' lives and prospects.
Bigger's alternatives are limited by institutional prejudice in housing, work, and
education, which feeds the cycle of violence and poverty. In the story, racism is
shown to dehumanise both its victims and its perpetrators, resulting in a society
where relationships between the black and white communities are dominated by
mistrust and fear.Racism is still a major problem in Chicago today, albeit it takes
new forms. There are still structural gaps that lead to racial inequities in areas like
wealth, education, healthcare, and the criminal justice system, even after overt
segregation and discriminatory laws have been repealed.For instance, ongoing
segregation and economic inequities have been exacerbated by Chicago's history of
redlining, which prohibited mortgages and investments to black neighbourhoods.
Due to resource shortages and overcrowding, schools in primarily black
neighbourhoods are affected by segregation, which exacerbates educational
disparities.Racism penetrates institutions and social interactions in both the novel
and contemporary Chicago, fostering inequity and impeding people's ability to
reach their full potential. Even though there has been improvement since the
release of "Native Son," institutional racism is still a pervasive problem that
continues to influence black people's lives in Chicago and worldwide. A
multidimensional strategy that addresses hidden prejudices in society, community
empowerment, and policy changes is needed to address these concerns.

2.1.2 Intersectionality

"Native Son" explores the ways in which racial identities interact with class,
gender, and other social identities to influence people's chances and experiences.
Being a black guy from a lower class family, Bigger Thomas experiences multiple
forms of discrimination and oppression that affect his thoughts, feelings, and
behaviour.The term "intersectionality," which was first used by Kimberlé
Crenshaw, refers to the study of how different social identities such as those based
on race, gender, class, sexual orientation, or ability intersect and work together to
influence how people experience privilege and oppression. Intersectionality is
essential to comprehending the intricate dynamics of power, identity, and
marginalisation that Bigger Thomas, the protagonist, and other characters in
Richard Wright's "Native Son," encounter.

2.1.3 Social Stratification

In Richard Wright's "Native Son," social stratification is a major theme that sheds
light on the strict class hierarchy and racial differences that typified Chicago
society in the 1930s. The story illustrates how socioeconomic stratification affects
the lives of its characters especially Bigger Thomas, the protagonist and sustains
inequality."Native Son" portrays the South Side's destitute neighborhoods where
black populations were confined as well as Chicago's 1930s racial segregation.
Black people's chances of escaping poverty and achieving social mobility were
restricted by this spatial segregation, which was a reflection of the larger systemic
racism that was prevalent in American culture at the time.There are obvious
differences in the black population according to socioeconomic position. Bigger
Thomas and his family, who struggle to make ends meet while living in filthy
surroundings, represent the bottom rung of the socioeconomic ladder. They are
vulnerable to exploitation and oppression because of their poverty, which also
limits their options in life.The film "Native Son" delves into the tensions and
conflicts that stem from the pronounced social differences present in Chicago
culture. The significant differences in power and wealth between the black and
white populations of the city are brought to light by Bigger's meetings with
wealthy white characters like the Daltons. The power dynamics present in the class
divide are shown by the Daltons' condescending attitudes towards Bigger.

Opportunities for people are limited by social stratification according to their race
and social status. Systemic racism and economic inequality create structural
barriers that impede Bigger's dreams of a better life. His lack of money and
knowledge increase his marginalisation and keep him trapped in a cycle of poverty.
2.1.4 Hegemony

The term "hegemony," which dates back to the writings of Italian Marxist
philosopher Antonio Gramsci, describes the supremacy of one group or ideology
over another through social, political, and cultural channels. Hegemony is
important in determining power relationships, societal hierarchies, and the
experiences of the characters in Richard Wright's "Native Son," especially Bigger
Thomas, the main character.The book investigates how racial stereotypes are
maintained and reinforced by prevailing cultural narratives and representations.
Mr. and Mrs. Dalton, two of the white characters in the book, support racist
ideas and attitudes that serve as justification for their superiority over Black
people. These cultural portrayals support and legitimize the current
hierarchies of power that oppress disadvantaged people."Native Son" depicts a
society where white supremacy and racial hegemony are deeply entrenched. The
dominance of white culture, norms, and institutions relegates black individuals like
Bigger Thomas to the margins of society. White characters, such as the wealthy
Dalton family, wield power and influence over Bigger and other black characters,
reinforcing their subordinate status.

2.1.5 Symbolism of Space

In "Native Son," Richard Wright uses spatial symbolism to imply deeper ideas
about societal hierarchies, power relationships, and character psychology. The
novel's spatial divisions function as symbolic representations of the racial and
social divides that characterised Chicago society in the 1930s.The lavish Dalton
estate, where Bigger works as a driver, and the run-down South Side tenements
where he resides represent one of the novel's most notable spatial distinctions. The
striking contrast between these areas represents the wide-ranging social and
economic inequality that existed in Chicago at the time. The South Side tenements
stand for marginalisation, poverty, and oppression, whereas the Dalton house is a
symbol of privilege, riches, and power. The characters' lives are governed by social
hierarchies, which are reinforced by this spatial difference, which also highlights
the systematic racism and classism present in American culture.Bigger's
movements are restricted to particular areas of the city throughout the book, which
reflects the restrictions imposed on him by his social class and colour. Bigger
highlights his surroundings' limitations as he makes his way through the South
Side's winding streets, where violence and poverty are pervasive. His failure to
cross these physical hurdles serves as a metaphor for the institutional impediments
that black people face while trying to move up the social ladder and take advantage
of career chances.Bigger and other black citizens saw Chicago as a symbol of
persecution and imprisonment. Systemic racism is sustained by the city's
segregated neighbourhoods and discriminatory policies, which further marginalise
Black residents. Bigger's experiences in the city are a reflection of the ways that
spatial differences maintain existing power systems and the ubiquitous influence of
racial hegemony.In conclusion, the symbolism of space in "Native Son"
contributes to the novel's exploration of race, power dynamics, and social
hierarchies. By examining the spatial divisions within the narrative, readers gain
insight into the structural inequalities that shape the lives of the characters and the
society in which they live.

2.1.6 Language and Power

In "Native Son," language is a potent instrument that both reflects and perpetuates
the privilege, oppression, and power relations present in Chicago society in the
1930s. In his study of language and power, Richard Wright critically investigates
the ways in which language is employed to uphold social hierarchies, enforce
stereotypes, and establish authority. Throughout the narrative, Language is wielded
by the white as a means of enforcing their superiority over the black community.
White characters, such as Mr and Mrs Dalton, use language to show their
dominance and racial stereotypes, using demeaning terms and speech to maintain
their power. This demonstrates how language can be used as a tool of oppression
and marginalization of those deemed inferior. Language plays an important role in
shaping and controlling the dominant narrative within the novel. The white-
controlled media and legal system dictate the language used to describe and frame
incidents involving black individuals, justifying systemic racism. By controlling
the narrative, those in power maintain their authority and preserve their status,
while silencing dissenting voices and alternative perspectives.

2.1.7 Relational Sociology

Relational sociology in "Native Son" looks at how characters interact with each
other and their environment. It examines the connections between people, their
social positions, and how these relationships shape their lives. In the book, Bigger's
actions are influenced by his relationships with others, like his family and society.
Relational sociology helps us understand how these connections affect his behavior
and the outcomes of the story. It shows that individuals are not isolated but are part
of a larger web of social relations that impact their actions and
experiences.Throughout the novel, Bigger's actions are influenced by his
perceptions of society's expectations and attitudes towards him as a black man. His
feelings of alienation and resentment towards white society drive much of his
behavior, including his eventual involvement in criminal activities.Bigger's
relationships with other characters, such as his employer's daughter Mary and her
boyfriend Jan, highlight the complex power dynamics at play in interracial
interactions during that time period. These relationships reflect broader societal
tensions and inequalities.The setting of 1930s Chicago serves as a backdrop for
understanding the impact of urbanization, segregation, and poverty on Bigger's life
and the lives of other characters. The spatial dynamics of the city shape social
relations and opportunities for its inhabitants.These instances demonstrate how
relational sociology in "Native Son" explores the interconnectedness of
individuals, institutions, and societal structures, and how these relationships
influence the characters' experiences and actions.

2.1.8 Hermeneutics

Hermeneutics in "Native Son" involves interpreting and understanding the deeper

meanings within the text. It's like trying to figure out what the author really means
by looking at the words and the story. In the book, readers might use hermeneutics
to understand the characters' motivations and actions, like why Bigger behaves the
way he does. They might also try to understand the book's message about race,
society, and justice. Hermeneutics helps readers see beyond the surface of the story
to explore its deeper themes and ideas.Readers can use hermeneutics to analyze
Bigger's motivations and behavior throughout the novel. For example, when
Bigger kills Mary, some readers might interpret his actions as a response to
feelings of powerlessness and anger towards a society that oppresses him. Others
might see it as a result of his internalized racism and fear of white
authority.Hermeneutics can help readers interpret the complex relationships
between characters. For instance, the interactions between Bigger and his girlfriend
Bessie can be interpreted as a reflection of the difficulties faced by African
Americans in forming and maintaining intimate relationships in a society marked
by racism and poverty.Hermeneutics allows readers to delve into the symbolism
and imagery used by the author to convey deeper meanings. For example, the rat
motif that runs throughout the novel can be interpreted as a symbol of Bigger's
feelings of fear, alienation, and self-loathing. By examining how this motif is
employed in different contexts, readers can uncover layers of meaning within the
text.These instances demonstrate how hermeneutics can be applied to "Native Son"
to uncover the deeper layers of meaning within the text and engage with its broader
themes and ideas.

2.2 Empirical Studies

Most articles trace and interpret power dynamics in literary text by such classic
black writers such as Gwendolyn Brooks, Richard Wright, Ralph Elison,Ellison,
and Tori Morrison as well as two contemporary authors, Colson Whitehead and
Percival Evenett. There is a series of three articles dealing with diverse power
dynamics under the conditions of neoliberalism: From the role of self-
commodification in position-takings in the field of fabrication of an Idealized type
of black homeless man to the demonization of a victim of police brutality. In the
essay "How Bigger Was Born", Richard Wright explains his creation of one of the
great American intellectual achievements of the 20th century, his novel Native
Son. As an adolescent of fifteen, Wright went to public school and worked
mornings and evenings for a white family. His chief duty was to tend the fire place.
The fireplace corresponds to the furnace in the novel in which Dalton's girl's body
was burned. Further associative material led to the recollection of a special scene.
Reading the quoted passages from "How Bigger Was Born", one is left to wonder
about the coconnection that may exist between the powerful emotions described as
being related to this uncovered memory and the emotions that Wright claims to
have experienced during the writing of his novel. 'The Native Son' hailed by critics
upon its publication, the novel was less well received by Wright's literary heirs
James Baldwin and Ralph Ellison. It was embraced again during the militant
period of the civil rights movement and later denounced, unfairly I believe, as
misogynistic by feminists, particularly in its portrayal of Black women. James
Baldwin criticized Native Son for failing to engage fully the complexities of Black
life. Everybody's protest Novel, pg 11,17-18(1998) Ellison during an interview in
1968, he stated, "Native son is a very powerful novel, but to my mind something is
missing (Maryemma Graham & Armritjit singh, 1995) pg 139-140. Moreover,
while there has been much discussion about the sharp decline in crime across the
country since its peak in the early 1990s, the fact remains that the number of black
males in the criminal justice system is still disproportionately high. "Black males
born today have a one in three chance of going to prison during their lifetime as
opposed to a one in seventeen chance for the white males. Native son also raises
significant questions about the criminal legal system. By the last third of the novel,
Bigger Thomas has been arrested and charged with the rape and murder of Mary
Dalton. The bulk of the remainder of the novel is devoted to his 'confession' and
following his plea of guilty, to his attorneys arguement in mitigation of sentence. A
host of arguement in mitigation of sentence. A host of legal issues arise in the
course of this narrative including the privilege against studies are expected to help
reduce Socio-cultural problems, especially in the context of cultural diversity. Self-
incrimination and the right to counsel, the exclusion of African Americans from
juries, the fairness of the death penalty, segregation in prisons, and race-based
police stops, concerns again that are still pertinent today. To me, neither approach
using Native Son as a pedagogical tool to discuss "the usual" criminal justice
issues, or using Native Son primarily to advance an empathetic understanding of a
poor, black defendant does the novel justice. By way of background, I offer in part
1 a précis of the novel, its genesis, and its use of a nipodes, followed by a review in
part 2 of the three "real life" cases that informed Wright as he was writing Native
Son, the trial of Robert Nixon, the Scottsboro Boys case, and the Scottsboro Boys
case, and the prosecution of Leopold and Loeb. These cases in turn inform my
close readings of the novel, which I begin in part 3, borrowing from critical race
theory and penology. In part 3a, I demonstrate that Native Son, more than simply
problematizing Criminal justice issues, foregrounds the way in which society and
the law participate in the construction of race and gender, and reifly a race and
gender based hegemony, Native Son also invites the reader to interrogate and
dismantle race and gender constructions in our everyday lives, in the society we
live in, and in the justice we administer. These daily constructions range from the
neologism used to describe the youths wrongfully convicted first by the media,
then by a jury.
This novel, according to Wright warns Americans about the risks of a culture that
appears to ignore the fact that enslavement of dark-skinned people still exists.
Because America is a society that loves freedom, Native Son is not just a work of
fiction or Literature; it also reflects how our society works, The analysis of issues
in this novel can be seen from other points of view, such as law, politics, and
character psychology. From those perspectives, the studies are expected to help
reduce Socio-cultural problems, especially in the context of cultural diversity.

CHAPTER THREE

INTRODUCTION

3.1 Research Design

This study employs a qualitative research design, focusing on textual analysis of Richard

Wright’s Native Son to explore the themes of power dynamics, social hierarchies, and

interpersonal relationships within the novel. Qualitative research is well-suited to investigate

complex social phenomena, allowing for in-depth exploration and interpretation of textual data.

The research design involves close reading of the novel, identifying key passages and themes

related to power dynamics, social hierarchies, and interpersonal relationships. Additionally, the

study will draw on critical race theory as theoretical framework to guide the analysis and

interpretation of the data.

3.2 Data for the Study

The primary data for this study consists of the text of Native Son by Richard Wright. The novel

serves as the central source of data, providing rich narrative material for the analysis of power

dynamics, social hierarchies, and interpersonal relationships. The data include dialogue,

character interactions, and descriptive passages that illuminate the themes and concepts explored

in the novel. Secondary sources, such as scholarly articles, critical essays, and historical

documents, will also be used to supplement the analysis and provide additional context for

interpreting the primary data.

3.3 Data Collection Procedure

The data collection procedure involves a systematic approach to reading and analyzing the text.

The researcher will begin by reading the novel in its entirety, taking notes of key passages and

themes related to power dynamics, social hierarchies, and interpersonal relationships. As the

analysis progresses, the researcher will identify specific scenes or chapters that exemplify these

themes and extract relevant quotes or excerpts for further examination. Additionally, the

researcher may consult secondary sources to gather supplementary information and contextualize

the findings within the broader scholarly discourse.

3. 4 Data Analysis Procedure

The data analysis procedure consists of several steps aimed at identifying patterns, themes, and

insights within the textual data. The researcher will employ thematic analysis to identify

recurring motifs and concepts related to power dynamics, social hierarchies, and interpersonal

relationships. This involves coding the data, categorizing relevant passages, and identifying

connections between different themes and concepts. The analysis will be guided by the research

questions and objectives, with the researcher continuously revisiting the data to refine

interpretations and uncover new insights. Ultimately, the findings will be synthesized into a

coherent narrative that contributes to our understanding of the themes and concepts explored in

Native Son.

3.5 Theoretical Framework: Critical Race Theory (CRT)

Critical Race Theory (CRT) is a theoretical framework that emerged in the late 20th century as a

response to the limitations of traditional legal and social theories in addressing issues of racial

inequality and injustice. At its core, CRT seeks to analyze and challenge the ways in which race

intersects with systems of power, privilege, and oppression within society. One of the key

features of CRT is its recognition of the pervasive and systemic nature of racism, viewing it not

as aberrant behaviour or individual prejudice, but as embedded within the structures and

institutions of society.

A central tenet of CRT is the concept of intersectionality, which emphasizes the

interconnectedness of race with other social identities such as gender, class, and sexuality. CRT

recognizes that individuals experience multiple forms of oppression simultaneously, and that
these intersecting identities shape their lived experiences and access to opportunities. By

centering intersectionality, CRT highlights the importance of understanding race within the

broader context of social hierarchies and power relations.

Another distinctive feature of CRT is its focus on storytelling and counter-narratives as a means

of challenging dominant ideologies and exposing the lived realities of marginalized

communities. CRT scholars often draw on personal narratives, historical accounts, and cultural

representations to illuminate the ways in which racism operates at both the individual and

institutional levels. This emphasis on storytelling serves to disrupt hegemonic narratives and give

voice to those who have been marginalized or silenced by dominant discourses.

Additionally, CRT adopts a critical and interdisciplinary approach to analyzing law, policy, and

social institutions. CRT scholars draw from fields such as sociology, history, philosophy, and

literature to interrogate the ways in which race shapes legal norms, social practices, and cultural

representations. By examining the role of law and institutions in perpetuating racial inequality,

CRT seeks to identify avenues for social transformation and advocacy.

Critical Race Theory (CRT) is the most applicable theory for the study due to its comprehensive

approach to understanding the complexities of power dynamics, social hierarchies, and racial

oppression within society. Given that the research aims to analyze how these elements intersect

and contribute to inequality within Richard Wright’s Native Son, CRT provides a framework that

allows for an exploration of race as a social construct shaped by historical, institutional, and

cultural factors. CRT’s emphasis on intersectionality enables a deeper examination of how race
intersects with other social identities, such as class and gender, which are central themes in the

novel. Additionally, CRT’s focus on storytelling and counter-narratives aligns with the

qualitative nature of the study, allowing for an exploration of the lived experiences of the

characters and the ways in which they navigate and resist oppressive forces. In a nutshell, CRT

offers a robust analytical tool for exploring the complex dynamics of power and oppression

within Native Son, making it the most suitable theory for the study.