What essential conflict does the protagonist face in "Invisible Man" by Ralph Ellison?

In "Invisible Man," the protagonist's essential conflict centers on struggling against societal conformity. Throughout the novel, he grapples with the expectations and limitations imposed on him by society due to his race and identity. The protagonist experiences a profound sense of invisibility, not because he is physically unseen, but because he is often overlooked and marginalized in a society that refuses to acknowledge his individuality and humanity.

This struggle against societal conformity manifests in various forms, including his interactions with different groups, such as the Brotherhood and the various communities that attempt to define him and his role. Each attempt to conform to societal expectations leads him to confront the hollow nature of those identities, culminating in a quest for self-discovery and authenticity. The experience highlights the broader themes of racial identity, individuality, and the quest for personal meaning in a conformist society.

The focus on societal conformity is what distinguishes the protagonist’s internal conflict from other potential struggles like poverty, romantic issues, or physical violence, which are indeed present but do not encapsulate the primary existential and philosophical struggles he endures throughout the narrative. This deeper examination of identity versus societal roles is central to understanding the complexities of the protagonist's journey in "Invisible Man."