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A) Historical documents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