African-American issues in mid-20th century America as represented in The Death of Bessie Smith

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the depiction of African-American issues as they appear in Edward Albee?s play The Death of Bessie Smith. The thesis depicts the position of African Americans in American society during the 20th century and their relations with a white community. At the same time, space is also devoted to the depiction of Bessie Smith?s character whose accuracy is compared to historical records. Finally, literary devices used by Edward Albee in this particular play are examined.