Final answer:
Jeremiah from 'If You Come Softly' likely feels a complex mix of pride, conflict, and introspection about being Black in his own community, resonating with the historic struggles and self-reflection experienced by Black individuals as documented in literature and speeches by leaders like W.E.B. Du Bois.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the powerful themes explored in literature addressing racial identity and the Black experience, the protagonist Jeremiah from the book If You Come Softly wrestles with the complexities of his racial identity within his own community. He experiences internal conflict, a sense of otherness, and introspection, similar to the experiences articulated by historical Black figures and authors. Looking at the historical reflections from the likes of W.E.B Du Bois, the struggle for self-definition and the weight of being a 'problem' permeate the experiences of Black individuals in their communities, resonating with the personal journey of Jeremiah.
Jeremiah's feelings towards his Black identity may mirror the sentiments expressed by Du Bois, who spoke of the 'double consciousness' and the challenge of reconciling an African heritage with a European upbringing and education. The selected passages underscore the multiple facets of being Black in America, ranging from systemic injustices to personal tribulations of identity and belonging within the social fabric. These themes are integral in understanding the nuanced feelings Jeremiah might hold in regards to his own Blackness within a community that simultaneously supports and constrains him.