Revisiting the trauma of Slavery in Beloved Through a Postmodern Lens

Abstract

Literature, where the human imagination is at its highest degree of freedom, is where reallife problems got addressed simultaneously with fiction. It enlightens us about the unexplored facets of man. For instance, slavery played a significant role in writing, especially in novels. In which the writers' goal is to expose the brutality of white people, disguised under the pretext of chosen ones․ This research paper explores the depiction of slavery in Toni Morrison's novel "Beloved" by examining the author's adept combination of post-modernism and realism. The narrative delves into the traumatic experiences endured by American slaves and the lasting consequences of their oppression. Through the perspective of the protagonist Sethe, who commits an unthinkable act to shield her daughter from the cruelties of slavery, Morrison sheds light on the broader struggles of enslaved individuals in their quest for freedom. Additionally, this research employs a psychoanalytical approach to analyze the psychological impact on the characters long after the abolition of slavery. By investigating the interplay between post-modernist techniques, realistic portrayals, and psychoanalytical perspectives, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the enduring legacy of slavery in American literature.