This disparity in resources highlights the lack of investment in African American education and the lack of opportunities available to these students.ĭespite the obstacles faced by Angelou and her community, they remained determined to achieve success. 2), while the white school had all the resources and facilities needed to provide a quality education. Angelou describes how the African American school was “shabby and under-equipped” (Angelou, 2018, p. Despite the fact that African American students were able to attend school, they were still subjected to discrimination and segregation. They were not supposed to question or challenge the status quo but instead to accept their place as second-class citizens.Īngelou’s essay also highlights the segregation that was present within the education system. This advice to be “stoic and silent” is indicative of the role that African Americans were expected to play in society. They told us to be brave and stoical and silent” (Angelou, 2018, p. Angelou describes how the speakers, “urged us to be quiet and stoic. These speakers represented a society that had long oppressed African Americans, and their words were a painful reminder of the discrimination that had been endured. The theme of racism is also apparent in Angelou’s description of the white speakers who were chosen to address the graduating class. The white community held the power and were actively involved in controlling the proceedings of the graduation ceremony. This description is a clear indication of the power dynamics at play. Angelou writes, “the white folks’ hands were busy adjusting the folds of the gowns, testing the mortarboards for fit and balance, and settling the tassels over the left temples” (Angelou, 2018, p. However, despite the joyous occasion, Angelou recounts the pervasive sense of discrimination that was present. The entire community had gathered to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class, and the sense of hope was palpable. This essay will examine Angelou’s experiences as an African American student and explore the themes of racism and segregation that are present throughout “Graduation.”Īnalysis of themes in Maya Angelou's "Graduation"Īngelou’s essay describes the atmosphere of excitement and anticipation on the day of graduation. Angelou’s essay highlights the struggles of the community as they sought to gain an education, and ultimately, hope for a better future. It is a powerful depiction of the obstacles that African Americans had to overcome to receive an education and achieve success in a society that was predominantly white. Maya Angelou’s essay “Graduation” provides a vivid insight into the experiences of an African-American community in the southern United States during the 1940s.
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