In this survey, the interrelationships of mainstream American literature and black literature are developed within each of the following periods: early literature--the oral tradition; early literature--literature of protest; post-civil war--literature of social consciousness; early 20th century--the American renaissance; the 30's--literature of the depression years; and the contemporary scene--alienation and identity. A comparative chart on black literature in the development of mainstream American literature and a bibliography are included. (LL)