Final answer:
The battle royale is significant in the protagonist’s growth in 'Invisible Man' as it exposes him to brutal racial inequalities and triggers a profound internal conflict that spurs his intellectual and spiritual development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The significance of the battle royale in the protagonist's early intellectual and spiritual growth in Ralph Ellison's Invisible Man can be understood as a critical turning point, where the protagonist is exposed to the harsh realities of racial inequality and human cruelty. Despite the humiliation and pain inflicted upon him during the battle royale, the protagonist chooses to deliver his speech, proudly affirming his determination and adherence to his beliefs. This action reflects the protagonist's internal struggle and his attempt to assert his identity in a society that actively seeks to suppress it.
Hence, the dream of the protagonist and the appearance of his grandfather symbolize the internal conflict and the history of oppression that he carries with him. Through these events, the protagonist begins to question the societal expectations and values that he had previously accepted without challenge. The battle royale serves as a catalyst for his awakening, leading to significant intellectual and spiritual development that reverberates throughout the narrative.