The President by Miguel Angel Asturias
- 1. The President, written by Guatemalan author Miguel Ángel Asturias and first published in 1946, is a powerful novel that explores the turbulent political landscape of Central America through the lens of a fictional dictatorship. The narrative follows the experiences of various characters as they navigate the oppressive regime of a dictator who embodies the traits of tyranny and corruption, mirroring the socio-political realities of Asturias' own country. The novel is steeped in surrealism and employs an innovative narrative style that combines elements of myth, folklore, and social commentary, revealing the psychological impact of an authoritarian government on both individuals and society as a whole. Through its vivid and often harrowing portrayals of power, fear, and resistance, The President not only serves as a critique of despotism but also as a reflection on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of overwhelming oppression. The work is considered a seminal piece of Latin American literature and played a crucial role in shaping the narrative of dictatorship and colonialism in the region.
What type of government is depicted in the novel?
A) Republic
B) Democracy
C) Monarchy
D) Dictatorship
- 2. In which country is 'The President' set?
A) Argentina
B) Guatemala
C) Mexico
D) Colombia
- 3. What aspect of society does the novel critique?
A) Corruption
B) Social gatherings
C) Education reform
D) Economic growth
- 4. What role does the church play in the novel?
A) Complicity with the regime
B) Educator
C) Rebel leader
D) Morality guardian
- 5. Which element of magic realism is present in the novel?
A) Fantasy creatures
B) Political oppression
C) Mythical gods
D) Magical objects
- 6. What psychological state is often explored in the characters?
A) Joy
B) Calmness
C) Paranoia
D) Euphoria
- 7. What is the theme related to power in the novel?
A) Democratic values
B) Power sharing
C) Abuse of power
D) Civil rights
- 8. Who is the key antagonist in the story?
A) The rebel leader
B) The journalist
C) The President
D) The priest
- 9. What narrative style is used in 'The President'?
A) Stream of consciousness
B) Epistolary
C) First-person
D) Third-person omniscient
|