A Scrutiny on Masculinity and Homosexuality in James Baldwin’s Giovanni’s Room

Abstract

James Baldwin is recognized as one of the vibrant voice among the African American writers
who has produced an acclaimed body of novels. He disputes throughout his work that identity
and an honest sense of self can only be attained through a personal journey that involves
more than just movement from one point to another; it must also lead to a change within and
an acceptance of self. InGiovanni's Room, the main character David travels a journey devoid
of personal growth and acceptance. A white, homosexual man, David finds himself trapped in
a white, straight, masculine, American ideal which does not define him. He spends the novel
trying to outrun and reject his past and aspects of his identity which he wishes to ignore.
Through David's struggles, Baldwin shows a connection between internal and external
spaces, and establishes a link between choice and acceptance when creating a personal
identity