History Analysis / NoughtsAndCrosses

Jude represents those who become disenchanted early in their lives. His hatred becomes vitriolic, which is projected with universal hatred towards Crosses. Initially, he wanted to go to school but the Nought schools lack resources. This shows how the education system disproportionately fails to progress disadvantaged people. People with so much potential end up not reaching it because of the lack of resources to access

Kamal represents the institutions that work mercilessly to maintain status quo. For example, he makes the entrance test for the school hard. Despite this, four Nought students do pass the exam, only to be expelled gratuitously.

Callum's teacher, Mr. Jason, signifies the internalized racism that is caused when having a biracial identity.

Kamal represents the institutions that work mercilessly to maintain status quo. For example, he makes the entrance test for the school hard. Despite this, four nought students do pass the exam, only to be expelled gratuitously.

Callum's teacher, Mr Jason signifies the internalised racism that is caused when having a biracial identity.

Sephy and Callum serve as foils to one another. Initially, Callum and Sephy are mostly ignorant of the world they live in (though Callum shows more awareness). When Callum started to gain cognisance of the dichotomous world he lived in, his cynicism grows. This disenchantment pushes him to join the Liberation Militia. On the other hand, Sephy gains awareness much later and this is due to her privilege. By using Sephy as a symbol of privilege, Blackman shows that advantaged people can be myopic towards such issues because it does not affect them as heavily.

Sephy and Callum serve as foils to one another. Initially, Callum and Sephy are mostly ignorant of the world they live in (though Callum is a bit more aware of the racial climate). When Callum started to gain cognisance of the dichotomous world he lived in, he becomes more cynical. On the other hand, Sephy gains awareness much later and this is due to her privilege. By using Sephy as a symbol of privilege, Blackman shows myopia that having advantages can afford one

Race relations in the modern world.

For example, Meggie represents those who have learned to acquiesce to such a system. Though she does believe that Noughts 'should have their own schools' and that Noughts and Crosses should not 'mix'. Nevertheless, she acknowledges that due to the asymmetry of power in this society, antagonising Crosses can destroy their livelihood, she ha

Callum's dad defines his success by the dominant's standards. At the beginning of the book, it seems that he believes Noughts should put the onus on themselves; by assimilating to the Cross standards, he believes Callum can succeed at the school. However, as the book progresses, it is revealed that he is a member of the Liberation Militia which insinuates he has grown disillusioned with peacefully assimilating and resorts to more violent methods to foster parity.

Portrayal in the media
Whenever Noughts appear in the news, their race is always mentioned.