The N Word:
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/cultureshock/teachers/huck/section1_2.html
We have to decide how to approach the use of the N Word during our
study of Huck Finn.
Words are among the most powerful things there are. . . .
Nigger (also spelled niggar): a word that is an alteration of the earlier
neger, nigger derives from the French negre, from the Spanish and Portuguese
negro, from the Latin niger (black). First recorded in 1587 (as
negar), the word probably originated with the dialectal pronunciation of negro in northern England and Ireland.
--Anti-Bias Study Guide, Anti-Defamation League, 1998 |
In the United States, nigger was first regarded as pejorative in the early nineteenth century. In the era of enslavement, the words
nigger or black
were inserted in front of a common American first name (e.g., John),
given to a slave to distinguish the slave from any local white person
with the same name. While usage of the word in African American culture
is complex in that it can be used affectionately, politically, or
pejoratively, the epithet is considered an abusive slur when used by
white people. Langston Hughes in The Big Sea offered an eloquent commentary:
Used
rightly or wrongly, ironically or seriously, of necessity for the sake
of realism, or impishly for the sake of comedy, it doesn't matter.
Negroes do not like it in any book or play whatsoever, be the book or
play ever so sympathetic in its treatment of the basic problems of the
race. Even though the book or play is written by a Negro, they still do
not like it. The word nigger, you see, sums up for us who are colored
all the bitter years of insult and struggle in America. (Hughes,
The Big Sea) |
The
word has gained more acceptance in recent years in youth culture
through song lyrics and stand-up comedy. Some claim that the word can
be defused through reclaiming it. However, most adults continue to view
the word as offensive and harmful.
Discussion Questions
The N. Word:
Has the word ever been directed at you in an attempt to hurt
you?
Tell a story of a time someone insulted you, whether with this word or another word, phrase, or gesture, and how it felt.
In general, who can or can't say the N word? When, if ever, can it be said?
How do you feel about the use of the word?
Is the use of the N word in the classroom different from its use outside the classroom?
Is it different to read a text by an African American who uses it than
it is to read it in a text by a non-African American? Why or why not?
Does the use of the word in a "classic" literary work give it validity outside of the classroom? If so, how?
Reports to class.
Vote
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