The Souls of the Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois The Souls of Black Folk by W. E. B. Du Bois is an embodiment of classic American literature that persists in exerting its influence upon the contemporary world. It has been recognized as a seminal work in sociology, and forms a cornerstone of African American literature. The book constitutes of fourteen chapters that serve to epitomize the influence of racism on the American society during the beginning of twentieth century. As an African American individual, Du Bois draws from his own experiences towards effectively utilizing the elements of ethos, pathos, and logos. The South African revolutionary Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” The validity of the aforementioned claim is perhaps best exemplified via the thirteenth chapter of Du Bois’ The Souls of Black Folk, namely “Of the Coming of John.” This chapter essentially serves to highlight the potential of education in eradicating the veil of racial segregation, further identifying miscellaneous repercussions associated …show more content…
Moreover, lack of proper education had left such individuals unaware of their own predicament and susceptible to be exploited by others. Such dynamics allow for the existence of pseudo freedom wherein the society as a whole resists cultural, social, and economic integration. Black John, upon his return back home, realizes the existence of the aforementioned state of quasi freedom, “He had left…so little before” (Du Bois). It is imperative to recognize that Black John is able to draw upon the aforementioned realization owing to his enhanced education. As such, it becomes evident Du Bois identifies education as the prominent methodology to racially uplift one’s economic and social