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A) Historical documents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