Transformation And Reconstruction: An Analysis Of Black Masculinity In Toni Morison’s Early Novels

Toni Morrison is one of the most well-known black female writers in contemporary American literature.In her works,she always explores the destiny,history,and spiritual world of blacks and integrates more diverse voices into American literature.Viewing from the research status at home and abroad,Morrison’s study has become prosperous and more mature,whether in terms of thematic research or critical methods.However,there are relatively few studies on the black male images and masculinity in Morrison’s novels.From the perspective of masculinity theory,this thesis is dedicated to analyzing black masculinity in Morrison’s early novels: The Bluest Eye,Sula,and Song of Solomon to explore the transformation of black masculinity and the ways to reconstruct ideal masculinity so as to arouse the people’s attention to the problem of masculinity.The main part of this thesis is composed of three chapters.Chapter one discusses the transformations of black masculinity in Morrison’s early works.The black masculinity in Morrison’s works is diverse and constantly changing.Faced with white hegemonic masculinity,black men present diverse trends,manifested as marginalized masculinity,toxic masculinity,and progressive masculinity,and their manifestations are different.Chapter two investigates the causes of the transformation of black masculinity.The transformation of black masculinity is influenced by the triple factors: race,class,and gender.The promotion of the black class,the awakening of black national consciousness,and the challenge of the women’s movement drive the development of black men toward more progressive masculinity.Chapter three interprets the problem of reconstructing black masculinity.Morrison has been seeking to reconstruct black masculinity in her early works.On the one hand,it emphasizes that black men should benefit from the advantages of progressive masculinity and shoulder the responsibilities of family and nation.On the other hand,it should break through the limitations of marginalized and toxic masculinity.Black men must overcome defects such as violence and sexism and promote the harmonious development of black gender relations.The real black masculinity should emphasize responsibility,love,and self-confidence,rather than hegemonic masculinity defined by wealth,domination,and power.From The Bluest Eye to Song of Solomon,Morrison tried to break stereotypes of black men and seek a path for the development of black masculinity in the future.Morrison has given considerable reflection and criticism on the various drawbacks of black masculinity and has shown more affirmation for the masculinity represented by Milkman.In Song of Solomon,Morrison succeeds in creating the black male character,Milkman,and realizes the expansion and transcendence of black masculinity.It allows readers better to understand black masculinity in this particular period of America.More importantly,it has essential enlightenment for the recognition of masculinity in modern society and the reconstruction of the ideal masculinity.