Snow Falling On Cedars

592 Words3 Pages
Racism Seen in Snow Falling on Cedars Snow falling on Cedars is an American novel written in 1994, by David Guterson. The novel is took place on San Piedro Island in the state of Washington in 1954. At this time, Japanese Americans were victim of prejudice due to the attack of World War II. When these Japanese bombed Pearl Harbour, white Americans viewed Japanese citizens in a whole new perspective. There are many themes in this novel; however racism is the most powerful theme in the book. Throughout the book, the audience encounters several examples of racism. A lot of the example of racism is seen from the white Americans; however the Japanese are not only the victims. The Japanese also was very racist toward the American. The main plot which is seen as Kabuo’s trial reveals a lot of discrimination from the community. Another example of racism is seen in the subplot between Ishmael and Hatsue. Finally, the last example is seen by the Japanese towards the white Americans. Overall, racism is the most powerful and significant topic in the novel, Snow Falling on Cedars. The main plot, which is Kabuo’s trial, reveals various scenes that reveal racism. Initially, from the beginning of the novel Kabuo's trial gives the audience a hint of the quiet racism that is present in the town. The courtroom is already bias towards Kabuo Miyamotos’ guilt feeling that he is already guilty. Throughout the novel, the audience encounters more examples of racism from the Americans. Etta Heine's, Kabuo’s neighbour, views on Japanese Americans caused her to hate selling her family land to the Miyamotos. While the Miyamotos were sent away at the camps, she took the opportunity to sell the land they were holding and return their money. However, it is seen my Mrs. Heine that she did the right thing, because they were not able to pay it any ways. An example of discrimination seen by

More about Snow Falling On Cedars

Open Document