Beloved tells the haunting story of Sethe, an escaped enslaved woman living in post-Civil War Ohio, who is tormented by the memories of her past. The novel explores the psychological and emotional scars left by slavery, particularly through the ghostly presence of Beloved, a manifestation of Sethe’s deceased daughter. As Sethe confronts her traumatic past, Beloved examines themes of motherhood, memory, and the enduring impact of slavery on generations of African Americans.

Beloved has been banned and challenged in various schools and libraries due to its graphic depictions of violence, sexual abuse, and the brutal realities of slavery. The novel’s intense and often disturbing content, including scenes of infanticide, rape, and supernatural elements, led some parents and educators to deem it inappropriate for younger audiences. Additionally, its exploration of deeply painful historical and racial themes has sparked controversy, resulting in its removal from some curricula despite its critical acclaim and Pulitzer Prize recognition.