Life in Trauma: An Analysis of Black People’s Living Condition in The Bluest Eye

Abstract

This paper explores the depiction of black people’s living conditions in Toni Morrison’s novel The Bluest Eye, focusing on the trauma and systemic oppression experienced by the three main characters. By employing literary criticism and historical context, the analysis examines how Morrison portrays the intersection of race, poverty, and psychological trauma within the black community, and how the conditions of life for black people are shaped by traumatic experiences rooted in historical and systemic injustices. The findings reveal how the characters’ experiences reflect broader social issues of racism and inequality, illustrating the pervasive impact of systemic discrimination on their mental and emotional well-being. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the novel’s commentary on race and trauma, highlighting its relevance to contemporary discussions on social justice.