Abstract:
This thesis examines how author James Baldwin (1924-1987), through writing autobiographical essays, psychologically exercised internalized rage in order to create a concept of critical black masculinity. This study is essential due to limited research intelligently establishing the intent behind Baldwin's expositions of anger in literature and particularly rage. A psychoanalytical approach is utilized to conduct this study in order to reveal how the author dealt with: frustration, hopelessness, racism, repression, and rage as a black man. The structure of the twelve essays reviewed for the study is presented in chronological order. Data is collected from: books, essays as edited by author Toni Morrison, his biography, scholarly journals, articles, magazines, YouTube, online, television interviews, and newspapers. The results of the study show how through literature Baldwin articulates rage, became the "native son", and inspired a critical approach to black masculinity.