Final answer:
In literature, a character's community identity can be shaped by their family's actions and reputation, such as Boo Radley being viewed as an enigmatic figure in Maycomb. Characters may mask their realities, pointing to the theme of appearance versus reality. Du Bois's double consciousness concept highlights the impact of dual identity in an individual's life.
Step-by-step explanation:
Community Identity and Family Differences
The community identity of a character often ties into how they are perceived based on the actions and reputations of their families. In the context of some literary works, such as To Kill a Mockingbird, Boo Radley's identity in the community of Maycomb is largely shaped by his family's reclusiveness and mysterious aura, coloring him as an oddity or a figure of fear and curiosity to the townspeople. The Radley family differs from the rest of Maycomb due to their lack of interaction with the community, and this shapes Boo's identity as an enigmatic 'other' to the townsfolk.
Veiling of Identities
In literature, characters may mask their true selves, either intentionally or unintentionally, which can reveal the themes of appearance versus reality. For instance, although Boo Radley might seem intimidating, he is in reality a protective and gentle person. The contrast between public perception and private reality can be significant, as it often confronts the reader with the idea that people may not be what they appear to be.
Du Bois's Double Consciousness
W.E.B. Du Bois's concept of double consciousness describes the internal conflict experienced by subordinated groups when they are forced to see themselves through the eyes of the dominant group. This can greatly impact identity, as it did for Du Bois himself and for characters in literature who experience the duality of belonging to a community while simultaneously being seen as an outsider.