- 1. The Big Sea is an autobiographical work by the renowned African American poet and writer Langston Hughes, published in 1940. In this engaging narrative, Hughes reflects on his life experiences, capturing his journey from his childhood in Lawrence, Kansas, to his emergence as a leading figure of the Harlem Renaissance. The book weaves together vivid memories of his family, friends, and the diverse cultural influences that shaped his identity as a black writer in America. With eloquence and insight, Hughes explores themes of race, identity, and creativity, recounting his travels to various cities and countries, including his profound experiences in Africa and Europe. Through lyrical prose, he shares anecdotes about fellow artists and intellectuals of the time, offering a rich tapestry of the social and cultural landscape that defined his era. Hughes's narrative is not only a personal memoir but also a powerful commentary on the struggles and triumphs of African Americans, making The Big Sea a significant contribution to American literature and an essential reading for those interested in understanding the complexities of race and identity in the 20th century.
What is the genre of 'The Big Sea'?
A) Fiction
B) Autobiography
C) Drama
D) Poetry
- 2. Who is the author of 'The Big Sea'?
A) Richard Wright
B) Zora Neale Hurston
C) Langston Hughes
D) Claude McKay
- 3. In which year was 'The Big Sea' published?
A) 1935
B) 1940
C) 1950
D) 1945
- 4. What does 'The Big Sea' primarily explore?
A) World War II
B) Science fiction elements
C) African American identity and experience
D) Political ideologies
- 5. Which literary movement is Hughes associated with?
A) Harlem Renaissance
B) Realism
C) Romanticism
D) Modernism
- 6. What job did Hughes take on while in Paris?
A) Factory worker
B) Journalist
C) Teacher
D) Waiter
- 7. Which famous poet does Hughes mention as an influence?
A) Robert Frost
B) T.S. Eliot
C) Walt Whitman
D) Emily Dickinson
- 8. What theme is prominent throughout 'The Big Sea'?
A) Science and technology
B) Racial struggle and pride
C) Wealth and success
D) Love and romance
- 9. Hughes' travels to Europe are driven by what?
A) Artistic inspiration
B) Family obligations
C) A job offer
D) Military service
- 10. Hughes was a significant figure in which artistic field?
A) Sculpting
B) Painting
C) Dance
D) Poetry
- 11. Hughes uses what in his writing?
A) Jazz rhythms and blues lyrics
B) Complex metaphors
C) Historical documents
D) Scientific terminology
- 12. Hughes writes about which historical period?
A) The Great Depression
B) The Harlem Renaissance
C) The Roaring Twenties
D) The Civil Rights Movement
- 13. In which style is 'The Big Sea' written?
A) Historical fiction
B) Poetic verse
C) Autobiographical narrative
D) Science fiction
- 14. The title 'The Big Sea' symbolizes what?
A) The vastness of experience
B) A specific location
C) Isolation and despair
D) Political boundaries
- 15. Who greatly influenced Hughes' work?
A) British playwrights
B) French philosophers
C) Italian poets
D) African American cultural figures
- 16. In 'The Big Sea', Hughes advocates for:
A) Political apathy
B) Economic isolation
C) Cultural imperialism
D) Social justice
- 17. Hughes' writing style in 'The Big Sea' can be characterized as:
A) Formal
B) Conversational
C) Eloquent
D) Abstract
- 18. What city is closely tied to Hughes' career?
A) Detroit
B) Philadelphia
C) San Francisco
D) New York City
- 19. What recurring symbol appears in 'The Big Sea'?
A) The sea
B) The mountain
C) The desert
D) The city
- 20. In 'The Big Sea', what profession does Hughes discuss having?
A) Writer
B) Actor
C) Teacher
D) Doctor
- 21. What does Hughes emphasize about the black experience?
A) Resilience and creativity
B) Defeat and despair
C) Escape from reality
D) Monotony of life
- 22. What does Hughes express about his heritage?
A) Indifference
B) Shame about his heritage
C) Pride in his African American identity
D) Desire to assimilate
- 23. The tone of 'The Big Sea' can be described as:
A) Indifferent
B) Reflective
C) Hostile
D) Sarcastic
- 24. What aspect of society does Hughes critique?
A) Racism and inequality
B) Capitalism and wealth
C) Technology and progress
D) Isolation and solitude
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