Oppression In James Baldwin's Down At The Cross
In James Baldwin's Down at the Cross, Baldwin exposes the confusion and oppression that suffocated him due to his place in society as a black American. Through recounting the strife he faced, he demonstrates to his readers the manifestation of racism in every facet of his life, as well as its personally devastating effect. Moreover, he points to various outlets to cope with this oppression, including involvement with the Christian church. As his dedication to the church increases and Baldwin grows older, the church's faults become progressively apparent, uncovered from its glorified exterior, which he aims to reveal to the audience. Accordingly, Baldwin searches for his identity outside of the church, and continues to advocate for the rights