- 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) Poetry
C) Drama
D) Autobiography
- 2. Who is the author of 'The Big Sea'?
A) Claude McKay
B) Zora Neale Hurston
C) Richard Wright
D) Langston Hughes
- 3. In which year was 'The Big Sea' published?
A) 1935
B) 1945
C) 1950
D) 1940
- 4. What does 'The Big Sea' primarily explore?
A) Political ideologies
B) World War II
C) Science fiction elements
D) African American identity and experience
- 5. Which literary movement is Hughes associated with?
A) Romanticism
B) Modernism
C) Realism
D) Harlem Renaissance
- 6. What job did Hughes take on while in Paris?
A) Journalist
B) Factory worker
C) Waiter
D) Teacher
- 7. Which famous poet does Hughes mention as an influence?
A) Robert Frost
B) Walt Whitman
C) T.S. Eliot
D) Emily Dickinson
- 8. What theme is prominent throughout 'The Big Sea'?
A) Love and romance
B) Wealth and success
C) Science and technology
D) Racial struggle and pride
- 9. Hughes' travels to Europe are driven by what?
A) Military service
B) Family obligations
C) A job offer
D) Artistic inspiration
- 10. Hughes was a significant figure in which artistic field?
A) Poetry
B) Dance
C) Sculpting
D) Painting
- 11. Hughes uses what in his writing?
A) Complex metaphors
B) Historical documents
C) Scientific terminology
D) Jazz rhythms and blues lyrics
- 12. Hughes writes about which historical period?
A) The Harlem Renaissance
B) The Civil Rights Movement
C) The Roaring Twenties
D) The Great Depression
- 13. In which style is 'The Big Sea' written?
A) Historical fiction
B) Autobiographical narrative
C) Poetic verse
D) Science fiction
- 14. The title 'The Big Sea' symbolizes what?
A) The vastness of experience
B) Political boundaries
C) A specific location
D) Isolation and despair
- 15. Who greatly influenced Hughes' work?
A) Italian poets
B) French philosophers
C) African American cultural figures
D) British playwrights
- 16. In 'The Big Sea', Hughes advocates for:
A) Social justice
B) Political apathy
C) Economic isolation
D) Cultural imperialism
- 17. Hughes' writing style in 'The Big Sea' can be characterized as:
A) Formal
B) Abstract
C) Eloquent
D) Conversational
- 18. What city is closely tied to Hughes' career?
A) Detroit
B) San Francisco
C) New York City
D) Philadelphia
- 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) Doctor
B) Teacher
C) Actor
D) Writer
- 21. What does Hughes emphasize about the black experience?
A) Defeat and despair
B) Resilience and creativity
C) Monotony of life
D) Escape from reality
- 22. What does Hughes express about his heritage?
A) Desire to assimilate
B) Pride in his African American identity
C) Shame about his heritage
D) Indifference
- 23. The tone of 'The Big Sea' can be described as:
A) Indifferent
B) Sarcastic
C) Hostile
D) Reflective
- 24. What aspect of society does Hughes critique?
A) Capitalism and wealth
B) Isolation and solitude
C) Technology and progress
D) Racism and inequality
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