Abstract

In contemporary American culture, black culture is an indispensable element in contrast to white culture. Both conflict and fusion exist in these two cultures. In Song of Solomon, Toni Morrison makes an utmost effort to promote African culture and remind Afro-Americans of their traditional culture. This paper first introduces traditional African culture to offer the readers a better understanding of the development and content of African culture. The main part begins with Morison’s attitude towards culture choice, and then presents African culture reflected in Song of Solomon in three aspects: the importance of naming, African myths and the relationship between human and nature. The final part comes to a conclusion that inheriting and developing African culture is significant to Afro-Americans.

Key words: Song of Solomon；African culture; the importance of naming; myths;  human and nature

Contents

Abstract

摘要

1. Introduction-1

2.Literature Review-2

3. An Introduction to Traditional African Culture-3

4. An Interpretation of the Traditional African Culture in the Novel-4

4.1 The Importance of Naming-5

4.2 The Myths and “Song of Solomon”-7

4.3 The Relationship Between Human and Nature-9

5. Conclusion-11

Works Cited-12