ETHNOCENTRIC ARCHETYPES IN ‘THE BLUEST EYE’

Abstract

The aim of this qualitative descriptive study is to highlight the negative effects of ethnocentric behaviour of different characters in novel ‘The Bluest Eye’, written by Toni Morrison by applying Jungian theory of archetyes. The novel presents categorized world on basis of racial differences such as the colour of skin and physical beauty in an Afro–American race conscious society in America where white characters, the ruling class perceives the black characters with aggressive behavior of ethnocentrism. The study analyses the influence of symbolic expression of archetypes processed unconsciously as well as consciously through their interaction with one another as well as their actions in very hostile circumstances. Under different slogans, raised by the ruling class, the blacks are ranked as inferiors. The ruling class is fairly able to control their mind in such a manner that they emerge as divergent human beings. It is concluded that there is need to purify the world from dirt of ethnocentrism, which works to divide people into groups, leading ultimately to social inequalities.