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A) Historical documents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