Who Is Pilate In Toni Morrison's Song Of Solomon

Words: 254

Pages: 2

In the novel Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison, Morrison writes of many characters, but primarily focuses on telling the tale of the Dead family. Many of the characters receive their names not only for their biblical reference, but also because due to the specific traits they accurately display throughout the novel as the story continues. For example, Morrison’s character Pilate is named for her ability to “fly” and be in control of her own life.
In the novel, Pilate is free. She proudly lives her life on her own terms without seeking approval or acceptance from anyone around her. In a way she is truly the “pilot” of her own life. In addition to leading her own life, Pilate also gives milkman the guidance he seeks as he continues to grow

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Song Of Solomon Rhetorical Analysis

Within our literary circle discussion, a variety of compelling points were explored from Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon. One point in particular that sparked an interesting conversation among group members revolved around why Macon chose to listen to Pilate, Reba, and Hagar sing. Throughout the text, it is evident that Macon has a fiery detestation for his sister Pilate. He not only deems her, “odd, murky, and worst of all unkempt” (Morrison, 20), but also a “regular source of embarrassment” (20)…

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Pilate In Toni Morrison's Song Of Solomon

In Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon Pilate Dead is an extraordinary woman. Ironically, Pilate is named after Pontius Pilate in the Bible after her mother dies giving birth to her. The name was chosen in the Bible by her grieving illiterate father who selects a name from the Bible without being able to read it. Pilate is shunned by her brother Macon and she is the outcast of the Macon Family. Pilate with a snuffbox earring in her ear is unique. She has traveled around the world, and not to mention…

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Song Of Solomon Home Analysis

Toni Morrison’s Song of Solomon explores many aspects of humans through her settings. From extravagant 12 room homes and beach houses in Honore, to two room houses on the southside, she brilliantly explores the dynamics of black economic backgrounds from the 30’s to the 60’s. Arguably the most significant place in the novel is the home of Pilate. If one were to walk down Pilates southside block to her home one would first notice the smell of the home. The home has “her smell”, the smell of pine and…

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Song Of Solomon

Song of Solomon begins and ends with an indirect reference to a traditional African American tale; a tale vital in African American communities. However, in addition, Song of Solomon is infused with classic childhood Euro- American fables and folktales that people often hear and read about growing up. Morrison alludes to many Brother Grimm tales throughout the novel as well, for example, Morrison uses the very familiar story of Rumpelstiltskin folktale at the beginning of Song of Solomon. Rumpelstiltskin…

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Pilate Dead In Toni Morrison's Song Of Solomon

For instance, Toni Morrison’s prominent female figure, Pilate Dead in her novel Song of Solomon. Pilate is ostracized and rejected by society due to her lack of a naval. However, she chooses to persevere and surmounts her tribulations; becoming a safe haven for outcasts just like her, “I wish I’d a knowed more people. I would of loved ‘em all…I would a loved more” (Morrison 336). Indeed, by helping and sympathizing for others and overcoming the adversities challenging her, Pilate realizes her humanity…

Words 1587 - Pages 7