The Son of a Servant by August Strindberg
- 1. The Son of a Servant, written by August Strindberg and published in 1901, is a semi-autobiographical novel that explores the complexities of class struggle, identity, and the transformative power of art and literature. The narrative follows the protagonist, a young man born into a poor family, as he navigates the harsh realities of life in 19th-century Sweden. Throughout the novel, Strindberg delves into the protagonist's internal conflicts, particularly his feelings of alienation and desire to rise above his humble beginnings. The book vividly depicts the socioeconomic disparities of the time, highlighting the struggles of the lower classes while critiquing the bourgeois society that seeks to suppress them. As the protagonist grapples with his ambitions, relationships, and the between his artistic aspirations and the demands of the world around him, Strindberg employs rich symbolism and emotional depth to convey the longing for belonging and the search for personal meaning. This work not only reflects Strindberg's own life experiences but also serves as a poignant commentary on the societal constraints that prevent individuals from achieving their dreams, making it a significant contribution to the canon of modern literature.
What genre best describes 'The Son of a Servant'?
A) Historical fiction
B) Gothic horror
C) Science fiction
D) Autobiographical novel
- 2. What is the primary social theme explored in the novel?
A) Supernatural events
B) Class struggle
C) Colonialism
D) Romantic love
- 3. What institution does Johan attend hoping for social advancement?
A) A trade school
B) Uppsala University
C) The military academy
D) The royal court
- 4. What does the novel criticize about Swedish society?
A) Foreign policy
B) Social hypocrisy
C) Technological progress
D) Agricultural methods
- 5. What emotional state dominates much of Johan's experience?
A) Alienation
B) Religious fervor
C) Contentment
D) Joyful excitement
- 6. What literary movement is Strindberg associated with?
A) Romanticism
B) Magical realism
C) Naturalism
D) Surrealism
- 7. What does Johan's education represent to him?
A) A necessary burden
B) A path to escape his origins
C) A religious calling
D) A form of punishment
- 8. What historical period does the novel reflect?
A) 20th century America
B) 19th century Sweden
C) 18th century France
D) 17th century England
- 9. What is Strindberg's purpose in writing this novel?
A) To promote religious conversion
B) To celebrate aristocracy
C) Social critique through personal experience
D) To entertain with adventure
- 10. What is Johan's relationship with his peers?
A) Religious fellowship
B) Marked by social insecurity
C) Competitive sportsmanship
D) Easy camaraderie
- 11. Who is the author of 'The Son of a Servant'?
A) Leo Tolstoy
B) August Strindberg
C) Henrik Ibsen
D) Fyodor Dostoevsky
- 12. What is the protagonist's father's occupation?
A) Teacher
B) Servant
C) Merchant
D) Soldier
- 13. The novel is part of a larger series by Strindberg. What is the series called?
A) The People of Hemsö
B) Miss Julie
C) The Son of a Servant
D) The Red Room
- 14. The novel is critical of the hypocrisy of which social class?
A) The bourgeoisie
B) The clergy
C) The aristocracy
D) The peasantry
- 15. What feeling does the protagonist's upbringing often instill in him?
A) Confidence
B) Apathy
C) Inferiority
D) Contentment
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