Tripp Hemker- Allusions post 3

     When the invisible man is in the machine in the factory hospital, he is completely out of it and confused.  He is asked several questions, one of which is, "Boy, who was Brer Rabbit?"  This connection causes the invisible man to make remarks about this being an old identity and leads to a bit of a realization and new direction.  This connection is ironic, as Br'er Rabbit is a trickster who succeeds by his wits rather than by brawn, tweaking authority figures and bending social mores as he sees fit. The name "Br'er Rabbit", a syncope of "Brother Rabbit", has been linked to both African and Cherokee cultures.  Both of these elements relate to the background and attitude of the invisible man.  From this point, the invisible man doesn't openly question his identity, but instead begins to question his role.  He even finds a way to fill his cultural role, without the use of violence, and instead goes into public speaking with the brotherhood.