Ellison’s novel engages a number of thematic concerns. Evaluate how Ellison treats race in the novel. Does his exploration of it move through stages? Are there contradictions (or tensions) that the novel attempts to draw out? For this paper, you will need to find three outside sources that you can incorporate into the paper. These can provide historical information, theoretical definitions, or direct readings of Ellison. I will proivide you with the novel, which will count as the fourth source. You are free to use the other three sources however you wish. Outside sources can also include interviews with Ellison or excerpts from his essays. I want you to use this material to help frame and build your reading of the novel.
