In Ralph Ellison's novel "Invisible Man," what primary struggle does the main character face?

In Ralph Ellison's "Invisible Man," the primary struggle faced by the main character is centered around the quest for personal identity. Throughout the novel, the protagonist grapples with the societal perceptions and expectations imposed upon him as an African American man. He experiences a profound sense of invisibility—not in the literal sense, but rather as a remark on how he feels unseen and misunderstood by the world around him.

As he navigates different communities and encounters various ideological challenges—from the oppressive constraints of racism to the conflicting pressures of different factions within the African American community—he seeks to assert his individuality and discover what it means to exist in a society that often denies his humanity. The struggle for identity is not just personal; it reflects broader themes of racial and social dynamics, making it a pivotal aspect of the narrative.

While finding love, deciding on a career path, and overcoming poverty are important themes in the lives of many characters, they serve more as elements within the larger context of the protagonist's profound journey toward self-understanding and acceptance in a world that minimizes his existence. Thus, the emphasis on personal identity stands out as the core conflict driving the story forward.