August Wilson left behind a legacy
with his plays. They were all about the African American experience during the
20th century and were known as the
“Century Cycle” or “Pittsburgh Cycle” which covered every decade of the 20th century. Through his plays, he was
able to communicate a message about race. Many people today can still watch his
work. His legacy gives insight into what it was like for African Americans in
the United States. It also shows the effect that race has had in the U.S. In
the article I read, a teacher got in trouble for using the n-word in his
sixth-grade classroom. Although it was taken out of context, he still got in
trouble for it. The article talked about how the context in which someone uses
the word- their aims, effects, and alternatives- is important. Some rappers
have said that they use the word, which has been historically used by whites to
degrade and oppress them, and turn it into something beautiful that they can
call their own. It can be used as a sign of respect or to show affection toward
each other. Also, as a playwright, August Wilson had the power to share his
thoughts and opinions on the topic, like many people can do today. People have
the ability to express how they feel about race. A person’s power and
who they are can have an influence on how a person’s race is used in society.
In the same article about the teacher that used the n-word, for example, he
said that he used the word to show his students what it would be like to hear
the word from someone they respected, hoping they might reconsider using it.
I feel that you did such a good job on your blog. There many things that I agree with. I never read the article you did so it was good to see that insight with the 'N word'. I feel you could have extended your learning with the second question. I really liked your introduction. "August Wilson left behind a legacy with his plays. They were all about the African American experience during the 20th century and were known as the “Century Cycle” or “Pittsburgh Cycle” which covered every decade of the 20th century." It sums it up pretty well.
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