After listening to this week’s lecture and closely analysing Du Bois’ writing, I am able to realise the power and essentiality of his message. Du Bois confronts the pervasive issue of racism through the infamous statement; “the problem of the twentieth century is the problem of the colour-line”. This significant statement refers to the continuous discrimination that African American people encounter on a regular basis, despite countless historical movements and icons that have advocated for equality and freedom. Subsequently, Du Bois seeks to gain answers as to why racism still exists within the twentieth century, and establishes the concept of the ‘colour-line’. To me, the ‘colour-line’ essentially refers to the division between Europeans and African Americans due to the colour of one’s skin. It is the notion that human nature prevents us from acquiring equality and acceptance, as it is human nature to think that anyone or anything that is different from us, is bad. Du Bois confronts society into questioning their morality, and how one can justify the act of mistreating people and refusing them from attaining their human rights due to the colour of their skin. Du Bois’ statement demands us to take notice of the racism that is still present in a contemporary society as well as the inequities of power. The concept that a person can be inferior to others simply because of their race is brought into question. I think that Du Bois’ teaching is a pivotal one, and that society must be reminded of the way we judge and mistreat one another, and how this prevents us from living in a liberated society built on acceptance and equality.
Literature with Anna 
Pingback: Peer Review 2- American Literature – Alicia's Blog
Anna,
This was a great critical analysis on “The problem of the Twentieth Century is the problem of the colour-line”. I think you are on the right track and have given enough knowledge into what Du Bois is trying to portray. Your use of technical language to justify your statements brings into consideration that you have well prepared for this unit. Your thoughts on questioning morality help the reader delve deep into your mind to see what, you, as an individual is seeing. Reading your blog has opened my mind about how we do judge and mislead people and how we can all work together to prevent that. This can possibly be a great eye-opener to many people that need to see this. Well done!! Keep up the great work and cant wait to see you explore more American Literature Themes
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Anna,
Such a beautiful insight into your perspective of Du Bois’ writing! It is evident that you have taken great care in writing about the pervasive issue of racism experienced by African Americans in the twentieth century. You bring to light the continued discrimination African Americans are projected to, despite the countless attempts made to reduce it. It was really great to see you incorporate direct quotes from Du Bois himself and take into account all that he attempted to achieve during his lifetime. Anna you have also managed to critically explain what the “colour-line” means to you and how it reflects on us as human beings who are unable to accept people that are different to them. You have presented a well-thought analysis of Du Bois’ ideas on racism and managed to reflect on them with positivity and sensitivity. The only thing I could maybe critique you on is to possibly separate your paragraph into a couple smaller ones for a smoother flow. Overall, amazing work Anna!
LikeLiked by 1 person