Becoming

Definition

Becoming refers to the process of transformation and development, particularly in relation to identity, self-discovery, and social dynamics. In the context of literature, especially slave narratives, it highlights how individuals navigate their circumstances to forge new identities and assert their humanity amidst oppression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In slave narratives, becoming emphasizes the journey of self-formation in the face of slavery's dehumanization.
2. Many narratives portray becoming as an act of resistance, where enslaved individuals assert their identities through storytelling and personal accounts.
3. The concept of becoming highlights the relationship between personal growth and societal change, showcasing how individual transformations can impact collective movements.
4. Becoming is often linked with themes of resilience, showing how enslaved people adapt and redefine themselves despite systemic oppression.
5. Literary techniques used in slave narratives illustrate the complexity of becoming, often blending personal experiences with broader historical contexts.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of becoming manifest in the personal stories shared in slave narratives?
  • In slave narratives, becoming is expressed through the personal stories of resilience and transformation that illustrate the journey toward self-identity amidst the horrors of slavery. Enslaved individuals share their struggles and triumphs, reflecting on how they reclaim their humanity and resist dehumanization. This process is pivotal in showcasing the complexity of their identities as they navigate oppressive systems while striving for autonomy and dignity.
• Discuss the significance of narrative voice in shaping the theme of becoming in slave narratives.
  • Narrative voice plays a critical role in shaping the theme of becoming within slave narratives by influencing how experiences are presented and understood. The choice of perspective—whether first-person or third-person—can create intimacy and immediacy in the reader's engagement with the narrator's journey. This voice not only conveys personal experiences but also serves as a tool for asserting agency and identity, demonstrating how narrators articulate their growth and transformation against the backdrop of societal oppression.
• Evaluate the broader implications of becoming as portrayed in slave narratives for understanding identity formation in historical contexts.
  • The portrayal of becoming in slave narratives offers profound insights into identity formation within historical contexts marked by oppression and resistance. By analyzing how individuals navigate their circumstances to assert their identities, we can better understand the complexities of resilience and agency in historical struggles. This evaluation reveals that becoming is not merely a personal journey but a collective experience that influences social movements, challenging us to consider how past transformations inform contemporary discussions about identity and belonging.

Related terms

Identity: The qualities, beliefs, personality traits, and expressions that make a person or group distinct.

Agency: The capacity of individuals to act independently and make their own choices, especially in challenging situations.

Narrative Voice: The perspective or stance from which a story is told, influencing how experiences and identities are conveyed.