Question

In "Back to My Own Country," why does the young Levy identify herself more with whites than with blacks?

1) She was raised in a predominantly white neighborhood
2) She faced discrimination from the black community
3) She found it easier to fit in with white people
4) She believed that white people were superior
5) She had more white friends than black friends

Answer 1

The young Levy may identify more with whites due to being raised in a predominantly white environment, facing discrimination from the black community, or finding it easier to adapt and fit into white social circles. The correct option is 2.

Step-by-step explanation:

In "Back to My Own Country," the young Levy may identify herself more with whites than with blacks due to a combination of socio-historical context and personal experience. The setting suggests that light-skinned black individuals were often caught in racial dynamics, where they faced unique social pressures and a color-based hierarchy that sometimes led to internalized racism.

Levy's identification might stem from being raised in an environment that was predominantly white or having more exposure to white culture, leading to a stronger connection with it. Alternatively, she might have faced discrimination from within the black community for not fitting the societal mold of 'blackness,' pushing her to align more closely with white identity.

Additionally, nuances of survival and fitting in, such as making friends, adapting to American ways, mastering English language skills, and finding work, could contribute to such a self-identification. These factors combined might explain why a young Levy might feel a stronger association with whites.