# How does The Blacker the Berry develop the theme of Harlem Renaissance and Cultural Exploitation?

> The Blacker the Berry by Wallace Thurman

## Answer

The Blacker the Berry by Wallace Thurman develops Harlem Renaissance and Cultural Exploitation across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

The novel critiques white fascination with Harlem as a 'fad,' exemplified by characters like Campbell Kitchen who exploit Black culture for profit, while Emma Lou observes that cabarets are 'patronized almost solely by whites.'

Arline Strange's performance as a 'Negro Carmen' and the cabaret scene reflect the commodification of Black culture for white audiences.

## Evidence

- [part-iii-alva](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_blacker_the_berry_se/chapters/part-iii-alva.md): Arline Strange's performance as a 'Negro Carmen' and the cabaret scene reflect the commodification of Black culture for white audiences.

## Links

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