Compiled by Dr. Cecilia Osyanju
Welcome to the first session of our journey into the profound world of Toni Morrison's
"The Bluest Eye." Today, our focus is on laying the groundwork, understanding the author,
and unraveling the plot that forms the basis of this remarkable literary work.
Let's begin by delving into the life and background of Toni Morrison. As we explore her
influences, experiences, and the socio-cultural landscape that shaped her writing, we'll
gain valuable insights into the mind of this Nobel and Pulitzer Prize-winning author.
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Toni Morrison
Author of The Bluest
Eye
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Toni Morrison (born February 18, 1931,
Lorain, Ohio, U.S.—died August 5, 2019,
Bronx, New York) American writer noted for
her examination of Black experience
(particularly Black female experience) within
the Black community. She received the Nobel
Prize for Literature in 1993.
Toni Morrison authored numerous influential
novels, including "Beloved," "The Bluest Eye,"
"Song of Solomon," and "Sula." Her writing
often delved into themes of race, identity,
beauty standards, and the African-American
experience.
Toni Morrison, born Chloe Ardelia Wofford, was an acclaimed American author, editor, and
professor. She was born on February 18, 1931, in Lorain, Ohio, and passed away on August
5, 2019.
Throughout her career, Toni Morrison authored numerous influential novels, including
"Beloved," "The Bluest Eye," "Song of Solomon," and "Sula." Her writing often delved into
themes of race, identity, beauty standards, and the African-American experience.
Morrison's literary achievements were not only critically acclaimed but also commercially
successful, with her books frequently appearing on best-seller lists and being featured in
Oprah Winfrey's book club.
Apart from her writing, Toni Morrison was a distinguished professor at Princeton
University and a prominent figure in the literary world. Her contributions to literature
earned her prestigious awards such as the Pulitzer Prize for Fiction for "Beloved" and the
Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2012.
Morrison's legacy continues to inspire writers and readers alike with her profound
storytelling that captures the essence of African-American life and history
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Awards
Morrison made history by becoming the first
African-American woman to win the Nobel Prize
in Literature in 1993.
The central theme of Morrison’s novels is the
Black American experience; in an unjust society,
her characters struggle to find themselves and
their cultural identity.
Morrison made history by becoming the first African-American woman to win the Nobel
Prize in Literature in 1993. Known for her powerful storytelling and exploration of black
identity in America, Morrison's works have left a lasting impact on literature.
Morrison grew up in the American Midwest in a family that possessed an intense love of
and appreciation for Black culture. Storytelling, songs, and folktales were a deeply
formative part of her childhood. She attended Howard University (B.A., 1953) and Cornell
University (M.A., 1955). After teaching at Texas Southern University for two years, she
taught at Howard from 1957 to 1964. In 1965 Morrison became a fiction editor at Random
House, where she worked for a number of years. In 1984 she began teaching writing at the
State University of New York at Albany, which she left in 1989 to join the faculty of
Princeton University; she retired in 2006.
The central theme of Morrison’s novels is the Black American experience; in an unjust
society, her characters struggle to find themselves and their cultural identity.
Her use of fantasy, her sinuous poetic style, and her rich interweaving of the mythic gave
her stories great strength and texture. In 2010 Morrison was made an officer of the French
Legion of Honour.
She was also awarded the U.S. Presidential Medal of Freedom. `about her life and career.
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Toni Morrison's writing
style
Toni Morrison's writing style is a masterful
blend of dialogism, multiple narratives, vivid
imagery, historical references, and distinctive
language that collectively contribute to the
profound impact of her storytelling on readers
worldwide
Lets talk about her writing style
Toni Morrison's writing style is characterized by its powerful and unique approach to
storytelling. She employs various techniques that set her apart as a literary giant:
1. Dialogism: Morrison's technique of dialogism allows her characters to convey their own
voices and opinions, ensuring that the narrator does not overshadow their individual
perspectives. This approach adds depth and authenticity to her storytelling, engaging
readers in a more intimate exploration of the characters.
2. Use of Multiple Narratives: Morrison often provides bits and pieces of each story
through multiple narratives, allowing readers to uncover the layers of her characters and
themes gradually. This technique of using various perspectives enriches the storytelling
experience and sets her apart from other authors.
3. Vivid Imagery and Symbolism: Morrison's writing is known for its vivid imagery and rich
symbolism. She uses powerful metaphors and symbols to evoke emotions, create depth in
her narratives, and explore complex themes such as race, identity, and trauma.
4. Historical References: Morrison frequently incorporates significant historical references
into her work, grounding her stories in a broader cultural context. By weaving historical
elements into her narratives, she adds layers of meaning and depth to her exploration of
African-American experienc es.
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5. Distinctive Language: Morrison's prose is characterized by its lyrical quality and
emotional intensity. Her use of language is rich with metaphors, poetic elements, and
evocative descriptions that captivate readers and immerse them in the world she creates.
Toni Morrison's writing style is a masterful blend of dialogism, multiple narratives, vivid
imagery, historical references, and distinctive language that collectively contribute to the
profound impact of her storytelling on readers worldwide.
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How Toni Morrison's Life is Connected to "The
Bluest Eye"
The novel delves into the struggles faced by Her
experiences growing up in Lorain inform the thematic
richness and emotional resonance of "The Bluest Eye,"
highlighting the profound impact of her life on her literary
work
Morrison's depiction of home and family dynamics in the
novel reflects her own experiences and observations of
familial relationships within the community she knew in
Lorain. The themes of trauma, dysfunction, and resilience
portrayed in "The Bluest Eye"
Toni Morrison's life is closely intertwined with the setting of "The Bluest Eye," as both the
author and the novel share connections to Lorain, Ohio.
Morrison's upbringing in Lorain, her experiences growing up in a racially stratified society,
and her observations of the African-American community in that setting influenced the
themes and characters in "The Bluest Eye."
Morrison's childhood in Lorain provided her with firsthand insights into the complexities
of race, identity, and societal expectations that are central to the novel.
The struggles faced by characters like Pecola Breedlove in "The Bluest Eye" resonate with
Morrison's own understanding of the challenges and injustices prevalent in Lorain during
her formative years.
Furthermore, Morrison's depiction of home and family dynamics in the novel reflects her
own experiences and observations of familial relationships within the community she
knew in Lorain. The themes of trauma, dysfunction, and resilience portrayed in "The
Bluest Eye" draw from Morrison's understanding of the social dynamics and cultural
norms that shaped her early life in Lo rain.
Overall, Toni Morrison's personal connection to Lorain, Ohio, where "The Bluest Eye" is
set, underscores the authenticity and depth of her portrayal of race, identity, beauty
standards, and trauma in the novel. Her experiences growing up in Lorain inform the
thematic richness and
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emotional resonance of "The Bluest Eye," highlighting the profound impact of her life on
her literary work[1][2][3].
Now, let's turn our attention to the plot in "The Bluest Eye." In this second section, we'll
embark on a comprehensive overview of the narrative, that will introduce you to the key
characters who inhabit this world and the central themes that thread through the story.
This foundation will be instrumental in shaping our discussions in the sessions to come.
Next Slide
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1. Racial Identity: The characters in "The Bluest Eye" grapple with their racial identity and
societal preferences for features associated with whiteness. This theme reflects
Morrison's own experiences growing up in a racially stratified society and her exploration
of how race shapes individuals' perceptions of themselves and others.
2. Beauty Standards: Pecola's longing for blue eyes as a symbol of beauty and acceptance
mirrors the societal emphasis on white beauty standards. This theme resonates with
Morrison's critique of societal norms that equate beauty with whiteness, highlighting the
impact of these standards on individuals' self-worth and identity.
3. Trauma and Dysfunction: The novel portrays characters like Cholly Breedlove, Pecola's
father, who have experienced tragic events that lead to dysfunction and trauma in their
adult lives. These themes reflect Morrison's examination of the intergenerational impact
of historical trauma, family dynamics, and societal injustices on African-American
communities.
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The Plot Summary & Characters in The Bluest Eye:
The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison is set in Lorain,
Ohio, during the years 1940 to 1941, following the
Great Depression Great Depression
The novel "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison is set in Lorain, Ohio, during the years 1940 to
1941, following the Great Depression Great Depression, worldwide economic downturn
that began in 1929 and lasted until about 1939.
It was the longest and most severe depression ever experienced by the industrialized
Western world, sparking fundamental changes in economic institutions, macroeconomic
policy, and economic theory. Although it originated in the United States, the Great
Depression caused drastic declines in output, severe unemployment, and acute deflation
in almost every country of the world. Its social and cultural effects were no less
staggering, especially in the United States, where the Great Depression represented the
harshest adversity faced by Americans since the Civil War..
The story revolves around the lives of characters like Claudia MacTeer, her sister Frieda,
and Pecola Breedlove. Claudia, a young black girl, lives with her family in Lorain, where
they take in a boarder named Henry Washington and Pecola, a young girl facing a troubled
family life. Pecola's parents, Cholly and Pauline Breedlove, have had difficult pasts that
influence their dysfunctional behavior as adults. The narrative delves into themes of
racism, self-loathing, and the quest for beauty in a society that values whiteness over
blackness.
Pecola's tragic story unfolds as she yearns for blue eyes, believing they will transform her
life and make her beautiful. The novel explores the impact of internalized racism and
societal beauty standards on individuals like Pecola.
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The climax of the story involves a series of tragic events, including Pecola being
impregnated by her father, Cholly, who later rapes her again before running away and
dying. Pecola's descent into madness leads her to believe she has obtained the bluest
eyes she desired.
Through its characters and narrative structure, "The Bluest Eye" sheds light on the deeprooted issues of racism, shame, and trauma within African-American communities. The
novel challenges societal norms and exposes the harsh realities faced by individuals like
Pecola in a racially divided America.
............................
About Henry Washington the boarder plays a significant role in the narrative. Henry is a
character who rents a room in the MacTeer family household. Initially portrayed as softspoken and hard-working, Henry befriends Claudia and Frieda MacTeer, earning their
trust. However, his character takes a darker turn when he inappropriately touches Frieda,
leading to his expulsion from their home.
Henry's presence in the story serves to highlight the innocence of the young girls, Claudia
and Frieda, and sheds light on the complexities of black female sexuality within their
community. The incident involving Henry exposes the girls to adult themes prematurely,
challenging their understanding of desire and trust.
Through Henry's character, Toni Morrison delves into the themes of innocence,
vulnerability, and the impact of male behavior on young girls in a society marked by racial
tensions and societal exp ectations.
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"The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison follows the story of Pecola Breedlove, a young black girl
living in Lorain, Ohio during the Great Depression.
Pecola, influenced by societal standards of beauty, wishes for blue eyes, believing it
would transform her life and make her loved. The novel delves into themes of self-image,
identity, and the impact of racism and societal expectations on individuals.
The plot unfolds with Pecola facing a challenging home environment where her father,
Cholly, is abusive and her mother, Pauline, is distant. Pecola's life is marked by hardship
and mistreatment, leading her to seek solace in the idea of having blue eyes as a symbol of
beauty and acceptance. Tragically, Pecola experiences trauma when she is raped by her
father, Cholly.
The narrative also involves Claudia and Frieda MacTeer, two young girls who befriend
Pecola and witness the struggles she faces. Despite the community's neglect and
mistreatment towards Pecola, Claudia and Frieda show compassion and try to help her.
Ultimately, Pecola's longing for blue eyes culminates in tragedy as she loses her baby and
descends into madness.
Through its exploration of race, beauty standards, and the impact of trauma on
individuals, "The Bluest Eye" offers a poignant reflection on the complexities of identity
and the harsh realities faced by marginalized individuals in society.
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Story Sequence
We can categorise the plot as follows:
Cholly Breedlove's Tragic Past
Mrs. Breedlove's Struggles
Assault on Pecola
Desperate Acts by Pecola
Claudia and Frieda's Efforts
Tragic Outcome
Cholly Breedlove's Tragic Past:
- Abandoned as a baby and rejected by his father.
- Traumatized during his first sexual experience by two white men, developing a hatred
for wome n.
- Lives a recklessly free life, feeling constrained after marriage.
Mrs. Breedlove's Struggles:
- Has a lame foot, feeling isolated and ugly.
- Loses herself in movies, where beautiful white actresses worsen her insecurities.
- Takes on the role of a martyr, believing her marriage is a cross to bear as a good
Christian wom an.
Assault on Pecola:
- Drunk Cholly returns home, conflicted emotions watching Pecola washing dishes.
- Feels tenderness and hatred, fueled by guilt; rapes Pecola and leaves her.
- Mrs. Breedlove beats Pecola upon discovering the assault.
Desperate Acts by Pecola:
- Pecola seeks miracles from Soaphead Church, who deceives her into poisoning a dog.
- Believes if the dog acts funny, she'll receive blue eyes.
Claudia and Frieda's Efforts:
- Sisters sell marigold seeds to save for a bike during the summer of 1941.
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- Learn of Pecola's pregnancy; contrary to the community, they want the baby to live.
- Sacrifice their money, bury it by Pecola's house, and plant marigold seeds in their
backyard, hoping for a positive outcome.
Tragic Outcome:
- Marigold seeds do not grow, Pecola's baby dies.
- Pecola goes mad, believing she has blue eyes.
- Community disowns her, and she lives isolated in her own delusional world.
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Story Plot of
Climax
Revisit the story you read by
recalling different parts of the
plot. Describe what happened in
each section.
Rising Action
Falling Action
Conflict
Exposition
Resolution
Reflect on the themes of beauty, race, and identity
Reflect on societal norms and structural inequalities.
Reflect on coming of age experiences of the characters
Reflect on parenting styles
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Thank You
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