How does the rhetoric enhance, change, or complicate Blackness the scene where T'Challa show Killmonger the Wakandan land at the end of the movie in Black Panther?
The scene where T'Challa shows Killmonger the Wakandan land at the end of the movie Black Panther incorporates various strategies of rhetoric that enhance, change, and complicate the concept of Blackness. Rhetoric refers to the effective use of language and visual elements to persuade, influence, or convey a message. In this scene, the rhetoric is employed to redefine and challenge notions of Blackness in several ways:
1. Empowerment of African Culture: The rhetoric employed in the scene aims to empower and celebrate African culture and heritage. The magnificent visuals showcasing the vibrant and technologically advanced Wakanda challenge the historical narrative of Africa as primitive and underdeveloped. By presenting an African nation that is highly sophisticated, Black Panther challenges stereotypes associated with Blackness and African identity.
2. Afrofuturism: The scene utilizes elements of Afrofuturism, a cultural aesthetic that combines African diaspora culture with technological and futurist themes. The rhetoric of Afrofuturism reimagines a future where Black people take center stage and are on par with or even surpass global powers. By showcasing Wakanda's advanced technology and progressive society, the scene challenges limiting stereotypes of Black people as solely victims or disadvantaged.
3. Complex Depiction of Black Identity: The scene also complicates the notion of Blackness by showcasing the contrasting perspectives of T'Challa and Killmonger. T'Challa represents a more traditional and peaceful approach to Black identity, while Killmonger embodies a more angry and militant mindset, seeking to use Wakanda's resources to uplift oppressed Black communities globally. This dichotomy highlights the complexity of Black identity and the multiplicity of ways it can be expressed and interpreted.
4. Addressing Historical Injustices: The rhetoric in this scene also confronts historical injustices and discusses the legacy of slavery and colonialism. Killmonger's anger stems from the history of oppression and marginalization faced by Black people across the world. By acknowledging these injustices, the scene encourages viewers to reflect on the ongoing impact of historical trauma and systemic racism, and the necessity of addressing these issues.
In conclusion, the scene where T'Challa shows Killmonger the Wakandan land in Black Panther enhances, changes, and complicates the concept of Blackness by empowering African culture, employing Afrofuturism, presenting diverse perspectives on Black identity, and addressing historical injustices. These rhetorical strategies challenge stereotypes, redefine Blackness, and encourage critical reflection on the complexities of Black identity and the importance of social justice.