SECTION F: NON – AFRICAN PROSE
RICHARD WRIGHT: Native Son
How does fear influence Bigger Thomas’ actions in the novel?
Explanation
The following points are expected from the candidates:
i. Bigger’s fear of the rat and his killing of it.
ii. Bigger’s background in a black segregated south side of Chicago.
iii. Bigger’s frustrated dream of flying.
iv. The aborted robbery.
v. His experience of the white world in the Dalton’s home and his smothering of Mary to death, all driven by his fear of failure.
vi. His decapitation and burning of Mary’s body.
vii. His murder of Bessie Mears.