Bigger Thomas is the central character in Richard Wright's novel "Native Son." Set in the racially segregated Chicago of the 1930s, Bigger is a young African American man struggling against the constraints of poverty, systemic racism, and his own internalized fears. These elements shape his identity and influence his actions throughout the story, highlighting the oppressive environment that governs his existence.
The narrative follows Bigger as he becomes embroiled in a series of events that lead to tragic consequences. His encounter with the Daltons, a wealthy white family, serves as a catalyst for his violent impulses and moral dilemmas. The novel explores themes of racial injustice, identity, and the consequences of societal expectations, ultimately portraying Bigger as a product of his environment as much as an individual making choices.