Date

11-11-2026

Department

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree

Master of Arts in Literature (MA)

Chair

Karen Dodson

Keywords

Literature, Hip Hop, Merit, Decoding

Disciplines

English Language and Literature

Abstract

Hip Hop and Literature have existed side by side for years, but their public perception and accreditation is more akin to fire and ice. Literature has been exalted, honored, and revered for generations while hip hop is often cast aside as the ugly stepsibling. To those on the outside this is normal and just but to those who are truly familiar with both art forms this is unfair. Hip Hop and Literature have always been more alike than different, and their biggest similarity is their literary merit. Through the examination of rap lyrics as literature, decoding the meaning and function of those lyrics, and their similarity to literary prose, the intrinsic merit that Hip Hop and its lyrics hold will shine through. Ultimately, this project will showcase the literary merit and depth that has always existed within hip hop from its inception in the 1960’s Bronx to modern day lyrical titans.

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