Examples Of Identity In Kindred

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One’s sense of identity is shaped by the conception of how one faces challenges in the world. In Octavia Butler’s science fiction novel, Kindred, Butler explores the idea of maintaining one’s identity within an oppressive society. Dana’s experiences in the antebellum South push her to draw from within and around her to persevere through not only the past, but the present too. As Dana completes a journey which is unexpected and complex, it allows her to realize how strong she is because of her ability to preserve her understanding of herself despite any alienation in the past.
Being a black woman in 1979, Dana has developed a strong sense of identity; therefore, when people challenge this identity she uses her inner strength to find a calm way to combat the controversy. In the present, her relationship with a white man is mocked by a fellow coworker who mutters, “‘Chocolate and vanilla porn!” [She] close[s] her eyes in exasperation. He always did that. Started a “joke” that wasn’t funny to begin with, then beat it to death. “God, I wish he’d get drunk and shut up!” (56) Dana …show more content…

Dana reveals her need for maintaining sense of self when she speaks with Nigel about teaching him to read, saying, “You know what’s going to happen to both of us if we get caught?” I asked him. “You scared?” he asked. “Yes. But that doesn’t matter. I’ll teach you. I just wanted to be sure you knew what you were getting into,” (99). Dana courageously recognizes that being caught reading will result in much pain for the two of them. She understands the risk she is taking and chooses to put her values over physical pain. When living in an oppressive society that is trying to take apart your character, it becomes very difficult to cling to your beliefs and

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