Song of Solomon

(1977), Toni Morrison’s third novel, established the author’s reputation as a literary voice whose extraordinary depth and originality of expression opened up new possibilities for fictional renderings of the African American past and present, while simultaneously addressing universal themes. Unlike most of Morrison’s fictional works, which focus on the subjectivity of female protagonists,

Song of Solomon

features a male protagonist, Milkman Dead, who passes through various physical, mental and spiritual vicissitudes to arrive at a better understanding of himself and of his African American heritage. The narrative renders the protagonist’s gradual awakening in the form of a journey that takes him from an unnamed Michigan town on the shore of Lake Superior through…

5109 words

Citation: Maragou, Helena. "Song of Solomon". The Literary Encyclopedia. First published 15 February 2019 [https://www.litencyc.com/php/sworks.php?rec=true&UID=1996, accessed 28 March 2024.]

1996 Song of Solomon 3 Historical context notes are intended to give basic and preliminary information on a topic. In some cases they will be expanded into longer entries as the Literary Encyclopedia evolves.

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