Faces at the Bottom of the Well: The Permanence of Racism

Discuss the role of Geneva Crenshaw in the book. Why does Bell include her as a character, and how does her presence allow him to advance his argument about the presence of racism?

Bell uses several different genres in the book, including science fiction, allegory, the epistle (personal letter), and dialogues; on the other hand, pieces like Chapter 3: “The Racial Preference Licensing Act” include few storytelling elements and are mostly conversation with Geneva Crenshaw. How does his use of storytelling help him advance his argument about the permanence of racism? 

Bell notes in the preface that many of the stories in the book started off as pieces he used in his classroom at Harvard. What aspects of the stories reveal their roots in teaching texts? How successfully has he made the transition from classroom to sharing stories with the more general audience of readers of Faces at the Bottom of the Well? Support your discussion with evidence from at least two chapters of the book.

Review the direct quotes in the book, numerical references in individual pieces, and the notes at the end of the book. How do these sources help establish Bell’s credibility? What do they tell you about the kinds of evidence upon which critical race theorists rely in making their arguments?

The mood over the course of the book varies, with some pieces and dialogues being more light-hearted (see the start of Chapter 6: “The Rules of Racial Standing”) and other pieces being more somber in mood. Trace the evolution of the mood from the Chapter 1 through the epilogue. What elements of plot and diction (or other literary elements that stand out to you) contribute to the mood? Include evidence from at least two chapters.

In Chapter 1: “Racial Symbols: A Limited Legacy,” the professor and Jesse Semple engage in a dialogue about the importance of symbols when it comes to the struggle for racial equality. Where do they each stand on this issue? With which position do you more agree? Using examples from historical figures or symbols in the book or symbols of racial progress with which you are familiar, take a position on this issue.

Carefully re-read Chapter 2: “The Afroatlantica Awakening” or Chapter 9: “The Space Traders,” taking care to note the historical or political positions of each of the groups mentioned in the work. Follow up by doing research on one of the groups or figures mentioned. Using your research, discuss whether Bell objectively represents the position of that figure or group and how his critique of the figure or groups position enhances his argument about the permanence of racism.

Derrick Bell was a highly respected lawyer and legal scholar. Research his life, accomplishments, and scholarship. Then, discuss how his experience in law is reflected in his arguments in the book.