Rituals of Resistance: Analyzing Themes of Liberation in Amiri Baraka's 'A Black Mass

African American Theatre

This research paper, titled “Rituals of Resistance: Analyzing Themes of Liberation in Amiri Baraka's A Black Mass,” indulged into the ritualistic elements and liberation themes within Baraka's provocative play. Amiri Baraka is a central figure in the Black Arts Movement, uses A Black Mass to explore the potential of ritual as both a form of resistance and a pathway to liberation for African Americans. The study examines the symbolic and thematic significance of rituals depicted in the play, highlighting how they serve as mechanisms for confronting and dismantling systemic oppression. By analyzing the interplay between the supernatural and the socio-political, the paper uncovers how Baraka employs mythological and spiritual motifs to critique racial injustice and envision a transformative future. The research also situates A Black Mass within the broader context of Baraka's outlook and the Black Arts Movement, emphasizing its role in fostering a revolutionary consciousness. Through a close reading of the text and its performance elements, this paper aims to elucidate the enduring relevance of Baraka's work in contemporary discussions on race, resistance, and liberation.

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