The Concept of Home in Yaa Gyasi’s Homegoing

Abstract

This research analyzes the novel "Homegoing" by Yaa Gyasi through the lenses of intergenerational trauma and the quest for a sense of belonging. The purpose is to examine the manner in which the book's characters confront the enduring consequences of trauma that has been transmitted across generations, as well as their unyielding quest for a sense of identity and belonging. The study employs a qualitative methodology to examine the characters' experiences in relation to significant historical occurrences, including slavery, colonialism, and the African diaspora. The study investigates the psychological and affective consequences of these distressing occurrences on the lives, relationships, and self-perception of the characters. By employing critical textual examination, thematic analysis, and theoretical frameworks pertaining to trauma and identity, this research elucidates the manner in which intergenerational trauma influences the characters' perception of what constitutes home. This work delves into the challenges they faced in terms of displacement, cultural alienation, and the yearning for a permanent residence. The results of this research illuminate the significant impacts that historical trauma has had on both individuals and communities, underscoring the criticality of recognizing and confronting intergenerational trauma. The text underscores the characters' fortitude and fortitude as they traverse their intricate paths to restoration, self-realization, and the quest for a genuine sense of belonging. This study makes a valuable contribution to the extant literature concerning intergenerational trauma and its ramifications for both communities and individuals. Furthermore, it sheds light on the capacity of narratives to confront and mend historical traumas, as exemplified in "Homegoing" by Yaa Gyasi. The overarching objective of this research is to enhance our comprehension of the enduring consequences of trauma and the inherent human longing for a secure abode.