Introduction
This semester in ENG 222, we read various books that prompted thoughtful debates and deepened our understanding of literature. Colson Whitehead’s The Underground Railroad was the most helpful book. This compelling story follows the brave Cora as she navigates the dangerous terrain of slavery in America. Along with captivating me with its potent storytelling, the book also made me more aware of the brutal facts of the past. In my essay, I will discuss why The Underground Railroad should be recognized as the most helpful novel in our ENG 222 class.
Place of The Underground Railroad in the ENG 222 Course
Through its compelling story, The Underground Railroad engages readers. Eloquent and evocative writing like Whitehead’s draws readers into Cora’s world and gives her hardships a genuine, authentic feel. Readers are drawn into Cora’s trip because of the book’s evocative descriptions and well-realized characters. For instance, the author adds mystery and meaning to the narrative by depicting the underground railroad as a whole underground network of tunnels.
The novel The Underground Railroad also excels because it delves deeply into historical subjects. Whitehead uses slavery’s historical setting to create a potent metaphor that connects with readers. The author reveals the brutalities experienced by enslaved people via Cora’s traumatic journey and urges readers to face the painful legacy of slavery. The Underground Railroad inspires readers to reflect on the past and consider how it has affected the present by illuminating this troubling period in American history.
In addition, The Underground Railroad includes societal commentary that will have you thinking in 2023. Even though the novel is set in the past, examining issues like race, power, and freedom is still very relevant to modern culture. Whitehead expertly incorporates these ideas into the plot, making readers reflect on current societal norms and face the ongoing effects of institutional oppression. The Underground Railroad challenges readers to consider the complexity of race and injustice by applying a critical perspective to the historical backdrop, building empathy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Colson Whitehead’s novel The Underground Railroad is the most important book in our ENG 222 curriculum. Readers are taken to a world full of hardship via the persona of Cora, giving us a greater understanding of the challenges encountered by those who battled for independence. This novel serves as a potent reminder of the significance of literature in forming our view of the world around us by diving into the past while addressing contemporary challenges.