On Ellison's The Invisible Man

by Durthy A. Washington

The original CliffsNotes study guides offer expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, literary devices, and historical background. The latest generation of titles in this series also feature glossaries and visual elements that complement the classic, familiar format. With CliffsNotes on Invisible Man, you accompany a young black man in Harlem during his process of self-discovery and individuality. Through a difficult passage into manhood, author Ralph Ellison writes of the alienation of humans in everyday life, yet remains whole and optimistic. This concise supplement to Ellison's Invisible Man helps you understand the overall structure of the novel, actions and motivations of the characters, and the social and cultural perspectives of the author. In addition to chapter-by chapter summaries and commentaries, other features Classic literature or modern-day treasure—you'll understand it all with expert information and insight from CliffsNotes study guides.

Genres: Reference, Literature, Classics

122 pages, Paperback

First published March 17, 1999

Reviews

[Jamie]

Powerful activist Literature. There is a translucent paring of dichotomous motifs of the narratives diluted identity through invisibility/visibility, blindness/sight. The social construct and consequences of racism and how they vary among hemispheric conditions. The symbolism in this novel is vast, complex, and emotionally moving.

''life is to be lived and not controlled. That our fate is to
become one, and yet many.''

[David Fulmer]

This CliffNotes is an excellent summary and analysis of Ellison’s Invisible Man. It offers a rich interpretation of the novel and a good run down of the characters, symbolism, and background of the book.

[Dennis]

I was underwhelmed by this CliffNotes edition. It is a newer edition. I just felt that there could have been more chapter analysis and discussion. I searched eBay and purchased an older edition.

[Ken]

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