- 1. Small Island by Andrea Levy is a compelling historical novel set in post-World War II Britain, which intricately explores themes of identity, race, and the impact of colonialism. The narrative unfolds through the perspectives of four main characters: Hortense, a Jamaican woman who aspires to a better life in Britain; Gilbert, her husband, who also migrates from Jamaica; Queenie, a white British woman who struggles with her own prejudices and societal expectations; and Bernard, her husband, who returns home from the war marked by trauma and disillusionment. The novel poignantly captures the hopes and dreams of the Windrush generation as they navigate the complexities of life in a foreign land, confronting the harsh realities of racism and discrimination. Through rich, evocative prose and a non-linear narrative structure, Levy examines the intersections of personal and collective histories, highlighting the often overlooked contributions of Caribbean immigrants to British society. With its profound emotional depth and insightful social commentary, Small Island invites readers to reflect on the legacy of colonialism and the enduring quest for belonging and acceptance.
What historical event significantly influences the story?
A) The Vietnam War
B) World War II
C) The Cold War
D) The Great Depression
- 2. What is Queenie’s relationship with Bernard?
A) Father
B) Friend
C) Brother
D) Husband
- 3. What does the title 'Small Island' refer to?
A) England
B) Barbados
C) Cuba
D) Jamaica
- 4. Which character serves in the RAF?
A) Cynthia
B) Gilbert
C) Bernard
D) Queenie
- 5. What is a major theme in 'Small Island'?
A) War and peace
B) Family loyalty
C) Love and betrayal
D) Racism and identity
- 6. How does Queenie's society react to her marriage?
A) With support
B) With hostility
C) With criticism
D) With indifference
- 7. What narrative style is used in 'Small Island'?
A) Third-person omniscient
B) Multiple perspectives
C) Second-person narrative
D) First-person only
- 8. What year is 'Small Island' primarily set in?
A) 1954
B) 1939
C) 1948
D) 1963
- 9. What person does Gilbert marry?
A) Patricia
B) Cynthia
C) Hortense
D) Elena
- 10. What role does memory play in the novel?
A) It creates conflict
B) It provides humor
C) It is irrelevant
D) It shapes identity
- 11. Who plays a pivotal role in Hortense's journey?
A) Debbie
B) Vera
C) Queenie
D) Clara
- 12. What does Queenie’s home represent?
A) Freedom
B) Tradition
C) Wealth
D) Prejudice and acceptance
- 13. What does Cynthia symbolize in the story?
A) Colonial legacy
B) Tradition
C) Hope and aspiration
D) Resistance
- 14. What nationality is Hortense?
A) Jamaican
B) American
C) British
D) Canadian
- 15. What genre best describes 'Small Island'?
A) Mystery
B) Horror
C) Fantasy
D) Historical fiction
- 16. What is the theme of belonging in the novel?
A) Struggles of immigrants
B) Joy of home
C) Wealth and success
D) Friendship
- 17. What cultural clash is portrayed?
A) African vs European
B) Jamaican vs Canadian
C) British vs Jamaican
D) American vs British
- 18. What symbolizes hope for the characters?
A) War stories
B) Jamaican traditions
C) Family ties
D) The British dream
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