Introduction
The literary work “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi presents a valuable and essential tribute to people who have suffered for a long time from the hardships and challenges of slavery and discrimination. The author talks about several generations, each of which was haunted by the trauma of the previous one. Especially involved is the story of the character of Effia, who is the first to appear before readers. The story of a woman who faced discrimination, slavery, and neglect and accepted it shows how such an attitude affects the lives of future generations.
Effia: Character Analysis
Effia becomes the first character to be introduced in the book by Gyasi and sets the tone for further narrations. She was raised by her father’s wife, her non-native mother, who treated her cruelly and disdainfully (Gyasi 17). Then, she is married not at will but develops a reasonably good relationship with her husband. The main problem that envelops these relationships is that Effia’s husband is engaged in the slave trade, and her sister, Esi, is in the dungeon of their house (Gyasi 77). However, the woman feels helpless in these circumstances and accepts this fact, which nevertheless becomes a heavy burden for future generations of the family.
The main issue in this story is the feeling that the main character cannot do anything to change the situation. Mitchell et al. point out that constant suppression and neglect towards the representatives of the colored community caused them to feel helpless and unworthy (1). This topic has cultural relevance as this trend can be traced in modern society. Many individuals give up, realizing that discrimination and white supremacy still have a significant place and are complex problems.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the history of Effia proves how the long history and practice of racism and discrimination can leave an imprint on future generations. Having close people involved in the slave trade, one as a trader, the other as an enslaved person, she feels helpless. This situation leads to fully accepting this fact, but to profound suffering and worrying. This topic has cultural relevance as this trend towards adoption can be traced in modern society.
Works Cited
Gyasi, Yaa. Homecoming. Knopf Doubleday Publishing Group, 2017.
Mitchell, Uchechi A., et al. “Hopelessness among middle-aged and older Blacks: The negative impact of discrimination and protecting power of social and religious resources.” Innovation in Aging, vol. 4, no. 5, 2020.