Racial prejudice

Definition

Racial prejudice refers to the preconceived negative judgments and attitudes directed towards individuals based on their race or ethnicity. This term encompasses the stereotypes, discrimination, and bias that can arise from such judgments, leading to social inequities and conflicts. In literature, particularly in the works of E.M. Forster, racial prejudice becomes a lens through which the complexities of human relationships, cultural misunderstandings, and social hierarchies are examined.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Forster's works often highlight the tensions between different races and cultures, revealing how racial prejudice can influence personal relationships and societal structures.
2. In 'A Passage to India', Forster explores racial prejudice through the interactions between British colonizers and Indian locals, showcasing misunderstandings that lead to conflict.
3. The theme of racial prejudice is often linked to colonialism in Forster's novels, as it reflects the broader social hierarchies established during imperial rule.
4. Forster's characters frequently grapple with their own biases, serving as a critique of the societal norms that perpetuate racial prejudices.
5. By addressing racial prejudice, Forster prompts readers to reflect on their own attitudes and the consequences of discrimination within society.

Review Questions

• How does E.M. Forster portray the impact of racial prejudice on personal relationships in his novels?
  • Forster portrays the impact of racial prejudice on personal relationships by illustrating how misunderstandings and cultural differences can lead to conflict. In 'A Passage to India', for example, the interactions between British characters and Indian characters are heavily influenced by their preconceived notions of each other. This tension not only complicates their relationships but also reflects the broader social prejudices of the time, demonstrating how these biases can create barriers to understanding and connection.
• Discuss how E.M. Forster critiques societal norms related to racial prejudice through his character development.
  • Forster critiques societal norms related to racial prejudice through his character development by showcasing individuals who confront or embody these biases. Characters like Dr. Aziz challenge the prejudiced views held by British characters, while others reinforce those views through their actions and beliefs. This duality highlights the internal conflicts that arise from societal expectations and personal convictions, prompting readers to examine the complexities of human behavior within a racially charged environment.
• Evaluate the significance of colonialism in shaping themes of racial prejudice in E.M. Forster's works and its implications for contemporary society.
  • Colonialism plays a significant role in shaping themes of racial prejudice in Forster's works by establishing power dynamics that influence interactions between different races. In 'A Passage to India', Forster critiques how colonial attitudes foster misunderstandings and hostilities. The implications for contemporary society are profound; by reflecting on these themes, readers are encouraged to confront ongoing issues of racism and discrimination that stem from historical injustices. Thus, Forster's exploration of racial prejudice remains relevant as it challenges us to recognize and address our own biases in today's world.

Related terms

Discrimination: The unfair treatment of individuals based on their race, ethnicity, or other characteristics, often resulting from racial prejudice.

Stereotype: An oversimplified and generalized belief about a particular group of people, which can contribute to racial prejudice.

Colonialism:

A historical context in which one nation exerts control over another, often resulting in racial prejudice as colonizers impose their values and beliefs onto colonized peoples.