Vision Versus Illusion: A Symbol of Reality in Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man

Abstract

Vision Versus Illusion: A Symbol of Reality in Ralph Ellison’s Invisible Man attempts to x-ray Ralph Ellison’s portrayal of the struggles and experiences of the Negro in the American society. The work examines his plot, characterization and his artistry which are all geared towards the success of the novel. The paper examines the role of these literary elements employed by Ellison to dissect the American society showing the conditions and plights of the Negro living among the whites in America. America is in the midst of chaos. Her oppression and antagonism of the Negro has resulted in a blindness that is contagious, and everybody is affected. This work attempts to unravel the state of incompatibility hinged on racism and exploitation as practiced in America against the Negroes. This has been the hallmark of literary expression of the 1960s and beyond among nations that have experienced exploitation and oppression. The nations notably include: South Africa, Kenya, Zambia, and other West African countries. These conditions have engendered literary reactions among scholars across the Globe.