Sexuality in the Harlem Renaissance

 

Along with race, color, and class, sexuality is an overarching theme woven throughout Harlem Renaissance literature. While many Harlem Renaissance anthologies choose to focus specifically on works related to race and color, it is important to acknowledge that these themes cannot be pulled apart from one another. Each one coexists and intersects with the other. 

 

The Harlem Renaissance was a time of free expression and provided an uncharacteristically safe environment for sexual exploration. Many well known writers from the movement encorporated this freedom of expression within their works, addressing themes of sexuality and same-sex love.