Chapter 2: Coming to Class Consciousness Summary and Analysis

Bell's mother manipulated her out of wanting things they couldn't afford. Rather than being honest and telling Bell that they cannot afford the yellow dress she wanted, she led Bell to believe that no one would be caught dead in it. Though not her intention, this practice led Bell to question her ideas and thoughts for years to come. It taught Bell to settle, make do rather than reach beyond herself. Bell's first college was not one of her choosing but rather one that was nearby and basically cost-free to her parents. Bell was on a full scholarship in an all-white girl's college. She was not accepted by the other girls and lived an isolated existence. The girls that Bell befriended her first year were from working class backgrounds, not from wealthy backgrounds...