James Baldwin essay

On the other hand, prejudice involves holding an opinion or thought on something or an individual without having prior adequate knowledge on them (De Franca, & Monteiro, 2013). Both prejudice and racism have been used negatively especially by people who feel that they or their race is better than other races. Such opinions or judgment are formed based on what an individual is taught as they grow and these inform their belief system. In Stranger in the Village, James Baldwin realizes that he was trapped in the stereotypes and misconceptions of the villagers, that he barely appreciated their friendliness. Also, Baldwin was trapped by his life as a Blackman in America. In so doing, he includes himself in the black history. He cites that the interracial drama in America has resulted to the creation of new black men and new black women.

In this statement, Baldwin provides that he is the product of American history and as such ingeniously includes himself in the history. Therefore, he is trapped in history and history is trapped in him. Baldwin is struggling with the thoughts of being treated different and as such he makes some interesting psychological points to illustrate that humans often act unconsciously or based on fear to create groupings (Baldwin, 75). A reformed member of the KKK, John suffers mob justice from his family and a former team member because of his new believes (Baldwin, 75). He is regarded as a traitor. Earlier on before this experience, John lived a secluded life without any friends. The community considered dangerous since he was a violent white supremacist.

After he abandoned the group, John is still trapped in the thoughts and ideas he was brought up with especially the Christian Identity. John questions whether it is right and worth it for his life to waste away in that manner. At the end of this thought, John agrees with himself that indeed he is wrong and should get something better to do with his life (Wes). From this point on his life is changed forever. The most interesting aspect of moving from one point to the next is that John is very thoughtful and decisive person. He takes time to reason out various thoughts and options and makes a decision on the right course of action as first as possible.