Democratic Vistas by Walt Whitman
- 1. Democratic Vistas is a profound and evocative work by Walt Whitman, published in 1871, that explores the essence of American democracy and the ideals it embodies. In this lengthy essay, Whitman articulates his vision for a society that embraces the diverse voices and experiences of its citizens, while also confronting the realities and challenges of a nation grappling with its identity in the aftermath of the Civil War. Whitman passionately argues for the importance of a robust democratic culture that champions individuality and collective unity, emphasizing the role of the artist and the poet as crucial figures in shaping public discourse and moral consciousness. He delves into themes of equality, freedom, and social justice, reflecting on the spiritual connection between people and the land they inhabit. Amidst his lyrical prose, Whitman expresses his hope for a future where democracy does not merely exist as a political system but thrives as a living ideal, inspiring citizens to engage with one another empathetically and thoughtfully. Ultimately, Democratic Vistas serves not only as a manifesto for American democratic ideals but also as a call to action for his contemporaries and future generations to aspire towards a more inclusive and humane society.
What is the primary subject of Walt Whitman's 'Democratic Vistas'?
A) A travelogue of the American West
B) A collection of nature poems
C) A biography of Abraham Lincoln
D) The future of American democracy and culture
- 2. Whitman wrote 'Democratic Vistas' in response to the social conditions following which event?
A) The American Civil War
B) The California Gold Rush
C) The Revolutionary War
D) The Industrial Revolution
- 3. For Whitman, what is the role of the poet in a democracy?
A) To record historical events accurately
B) To be a spiritual and moral guide for the people
C) To entertain the wealthy elite
D) To promote political candidates
- 4. What does Whitman believe is the relationship between the individual and democracy?
A) The individual must be sacrificed for the collective
B) There is no significant relationship
C) Democracy suppresses individual genius
D) A great democracy must be composed of great individuals
- 5. What, according to Whitman, has been the failure of American democracy up to his time?
A) It has produced material wealth but not a great culture
B) It has given too much power to the states
C) It has failed to win international respect
D) It has expanded too quickly geographically
- 6. How does Whitman view the relationship between democracy and religion?
A) Religion is a threat to democracy
B) Democracy should be strictly secular
C) Democracy requires an official state religion
D) Democracy itself is a new form of religion
- 7. For Whitman, what is the ultimate purpose of a democratic society?
A) To accumulate the most wealth
B) To conquer other nations
C) To produce a new type of noble human character
D) To achieve technological superiority
- 8. What does Whitman mean by the 'feudalism' of the past that democracy must overcome?
A) Hierarchical social structures and inherited privilege
B) Primitive agricultural methods
C) Pagan religious beliefs
D) A lack of modern technology
- 9. What year was 'Democratic Vistas' first published?
A) 1855
B) 1871
C) 1865
D) 1882
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