Schools Banning Books
By Marisa Mitchell | Opinions Editor
Throughout time, books have documented history. Humanity has celebrated the good and challenged the bad. Many say that history serves as a warning and guide from those who came before. Historians do not only study the past through events, but also through culture, such as art and literature. Many huge reforms and movements stemmed from art styles and literature.
One example is the invention of the printing press. When the printing press was invented, books became more easily accessible. One book mass produced was the Bible. Commoners were finally able to read scripture for themselves, resulting in a mass realization on how corrupt their churches were. This new information is one known cause of the Protestant Reformation. This event is one example on how books have affected lives. Now, schools and libraries alike are banning books that feature darker sides of society, such as racism, sexism, controlling governments and violence.
The topic of banned books often falls into the argument of censorship.The main question is whether or not kids should be reading books with controversial themes. In my opinion, I think books with these themes are meant to make people uncomfortable. These awkward moments are crucial in opening our eyes to warnings not to repeat the violent parts of history.
“Of Mice and Men” by John Steinbeck is one example of a critically acclaimed book that has faced backlash for its use of slurs, violence and racist themes. Despite criticism, it is still wildly taught in schools, including Kapaun Mt. Carmel. The story nicely features what life was like for the poor men and slaves of the 1930s. Though its use of the n-word can be alarming, it is accurate to the crude and inhumane way people of color were treated. Another character often criticized is Curley’s wife, a woman known for dressing seductively and flirting with the men on the plantation. Many see her character as too scandalous for education, as she is described in a harsh manner for being the “homewrecker” of the farm. However, her actions serve as a kick start for a major plot point in the book.
Another book under fire is “The Color Purple” by Alice Walker. Though this book is not taught in schools, it is infamous for telling the tale of a female slave who was abused, harassed and separated from her family. The story empowers those who can relate to her struggles. Critics felt the details of her abuse were too graphic to publish, and many found Walker’s descriptions of slavery, rape and domestic violence “vulgar”. The book also features LGBTQ elements, another criticized plot point. Despite any condemnation, the book was praised by many and adapted into both a film and musical.
Personally, this is one of my favorite books and films. I strongly believe people should read this novel because it gives a voice to the voiceless, even now. Despite being a story taking place in the early to mid 1900s, its message still stands. People will not be pushed around just because of who they are or how they look.
These novels are just two examples of books that have landed on banned books lists across the media. Today, we celebrate banned books that serve as points of critical thinking on our culture today. Though literature will always face criticism, it continues to leave a prominent mark in history.