Wednesday, April 15, 2015
Women in Invisible Man - Analysis of Sybil from the Chthonian (300 - 314)
In chapter 24, the narrator finds himself looking for a woman to sexually manipulate. In his search, he comes across a woman named Sybil. He remembers she has approached him before at a previous lecture. He also knows that she is an unhappy wife, which makes her an easier target than Emma. The narrator's plan goes well and arranges for Sybil to meet him at his apartment the following evening. The narrator is risking degrading himself in the process of exploiting Sybil. The narrator spends the entire next day preparing for his encounter with Sybil. Quickly after Sybil's arrival, they both become drunk. The narrator realizes that Sybil holds no information and she is more interested in the narrator fulfilling her fantasy of certain black stereotypes. Sybil reveals that she wants the narrator to rape her and that she might me a nymphomaniac. The narrator is reluctant to play into this fantasy, but by doing so it demonstrates his lack of direction. It is a cowardly action and it one of the deepest points of disillusionment in the novel. He has stoop so low to take control of the situation and ends becoming even more lost. Afterwards, the narrator receives a call that he must return to Harlem. Sybil makes many attempts to stay with the Invisible Man. She is similar to the coin bank in that she was difficult to get rid of. Overall, Sybil further emphasizes the idea of Black men being objects. She represents the horrible and stereotypic views associated with them. By the narrator allowing himself to be put in a situation like this it demonstrates his invisibility. He is allowing himself to be something that he is not and doesn't stand up to these views. It is ironic that he becomes offended by the coin bank and sambo doll, but not by this racist fantasy that Sybil wants to act out.
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 25 & Epilogue Reading Questions
Chapter 24
1. What causes the riot?
The cause is unclear, but one states that it is because of Tod Clifton's death and the other believes it is because of Ras the Destroyer. The narrator comes to the realization that the riot was the committee's plan all along. They knew the Black people of Harlem wouldn't stand a chance against armed police men.
2. Think about the Book of Revelations in the Bible. In what ways is Ras like one of the four
horseman of the Apocalypse?
The Black horse is popularly understood to represent famine, which doesn't really equal up to what Ras stands for. But he is like one of the horseman, in that he is delivering the apocalypse. Ras encompasses the force and anger of the all the Blacks into one man.
3. What drives the narrator underground?
He is running from a group of white men and falls into a manhole. They then shut the hole because he will not come out.
4. What does the narrator do with the papers in his briefcase? How is this action symbolic?
He burns them for a source of lighting to search for a exit. It is symbolic in that he is burning all his baggage and history that was holding him back before. In the process, he realizes Brother Jack was the one who wrote him the anonymous letter.
Epilogue
1. In what ways has the novel come full circle?
It begins and ends with the narrator in a hole.
2. Is this a satisfactory ending for the novel? What or why not?
Yes, because the narrator is able to acknowledge his growth and identity. The ending is thoughtful and reflective.
1. What causes the riot?
The cause is unclear, but one states that it is because of Tod Clifton's death and the other believes it is because of Ras the Destroyer. The narrator comes to the realization that the riot was the committee's plan all along. They knew the Black people of Harlem wouldn't stand a chance against armed police men.
2. Think about the Book of Revelations in the Bible. In what ways is Ras like one of the four
horseman of the Apocalypse?
The Black horse is popularly understood to represent famine, which doesn't really equal up to what Ras stands for. But he is like one of the horseman, in that he is delivering the apocalypse. Ras encompasses the force and anger of the all the Blacks into one man.
3. What drives the narrator underground?
He is running from a group of white men and falls into a manhole. They then shut the hole because he will not come out.
4. What does the narrator do with the papers in his briefcase? How is this action symbolic?
He burns them for a source of lighting to search for a exit. It is symbolic in that he is burning all his baggage and history that was holding him back before. In the process, he realizes Brother Jack was the one who wrote him the anonymous letter.
Epilogue
1. In what ways has the novel come full circle?
It begins and ends with the narrator in a hole.
2. Is this a satisfactory ending for the novel? What or why not?
Yes, because the narrator is able to acknowledge his growth and identity. The ending is thoughtful and reflective.
Monday, April 13, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 24 Reading Questions
1. Contrast the narrator's encounter with Sybil with that of the woman in red whose husband came home early.
The narrator is actually looking for a woman to get information out of when he comes across Sybil. The lady in the red was the one who approached him in Chapter 19. The narrator actually liked the fact that she was a married woman and he made sure her husband would catch them. He seduced Sybil instead of her seducing him, which is what happened with the women in red. He is in control this time. The narrator is shocked when Sybil asks him to pretend to rape her and that she might be a nymphomaniac. They actually don't have sex.
2. What is the significance of the last line in the chapter?
To demonstrate the narrator is still running from his true identity and now he is running right back into Harlem, which has shaped his identity deeply. Harlem is ever changing.
The narrator is actually looking for a woman to get information out of when he comes across Sybil. The lady in the red was the one who approached him in Chapter 19. The narrator actually liked the fact that she was a married woman and he made sure her husband would catch them. He seduced Sybil instead of her seducing him, which is what happened with the women in red. He is in control this time. The narrator is shocked when Sybil asks him to pretend to rape her and that she might be a nymphomaniac. They actually don't have sex.
2. What is the significance of the last line in the chapter?
To demonstrate the narrator is still running from his true identity and now he is running right back into Harlem, which has shaped his identity deeply. Harlem is ever changing.
Invisible Man Chapter 23 Reading Questions
1. What symbolism do you find in the narrator's purchase of dark glasses?
He initially buys them to hide from Ras. While wearing them he is mistaken for someone else. The narrator quickly finds himself acting different, when wearing the glasses. This shows how weak his self of identity is and how easily it is shaped. It is also ironic that he becomes more invisible by becoming more obvious.
2. What are Rinehart's various identities?
A pimp, gambler, reverend, lover, and a friend.
3. Is there any symbolism in Rinehart's name (Rind and heart)?
It is a symbolism of being inside (heart) and outside (rind) at the same time. Rinehart represents a duel persona and the advantages of being seen as so many different things.
4. Has Rinehart learned to play an identity game?
Rinehart is able to be multiple things because he has learned how to be socially invisible.
He initially buys them to hide from Ras. While wearing them he is mistaken for someone else. The narrator quickly finds himself acting different, when wearing the glasses. This shows how weak his self of identity is and how easily it is shaped. It is also ironic that he becomes more invisible by becoming more obvious.
2. What are Rinehart's various identities?
A pimp, gambler, reverend, lover, and a friend.
3. Is there any symbolism in Rinehart's name (Rind and heart)?
It is a symbolism of being inside (heart) and outside (rind) at the same time. Rinehart represents a duel persona and the advantages of being seen as so many different things.
4. Has Rinehart learned to play an identity game?
Rinehart is able to be multiple things because he has learned how to be socially invisible.
Brainstorm additional situations in which unquestioning obedience is expected. When is it okay to simply expect obedience? When should people be encouraged to think for themselves? How can a person tell when being told not to "think" is an attempt to put down or limit opportunities and actions of a particular group?
Some additional situations in which unquestioning obedience is expected include:
- Jobs: if your boss/manager asks you to do something it is expected that you will do it without question. Generally, if you question orders you may be fired.
- Parent/child relationship: It is expected that children will obey their parents without hesitation. Questioning or reluctancy can lead to punishment.
- Police: Generally, when you get pulled over you're supposed to comply with the officer. Obviously, there are situations in which this has not been true.
I think it's okay to except obedience when it doesn't put you in harm. Generally, this type of obedience is needed to maintain structure and keep people safe. For the most part, people can anticipate being told what to do. Like at a job, when you applied a job description was provided and no one made you take the job. It's the same concept in the military, you knew what you were signing up for. Also, a person is usually gaining something by giving this unconditional obedience. At a job, it's the money. In school, it's graduating and maintaing a good school record. People should speak out when part of being obedient puts them in a dangerous situation or makes them do something degrading. Another time that it's acceptable is when you can tell the person's intentions are negative and only want to harm you. Honestly, I think a teacher assigning a 1000 word essay because you didn't follow her instructions is ridiculous. They should give the student lunch detention or after school detention. You can tell a person is attempting to put you down when they mock you or make sarcastic remarks. Also, just the feeling of the situation can let you know if the person is just trying to put you down. Overall, obedience is part of having structure. You don't want a school full of students doing whatever they want. No one wants employees who disregard rules and policies. In general, someone has to compromise with giving obedience in order to move forward until you're the one giving the orders.
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 22 Reading Questions
1. Why is the meeting with the Brotherhood described in terms of a dream?
Because everything feels unreal to the narrator and he is unsure of what to expect.
2. On p. 463, the members are said to have "flowed in one channel too long and too deeply." What does this mean?
That his feelings have been bottled up for too long.
3. Why does the Brotherhood object to the phrase "personal responsibility?"
Because no one has responsibility for anybody but themselves. Also that would imply that the narrator has power and authority, which the Brotherhood insists that he does not.
4. Contrast the reaction of the Brotherhood to the funeral speech to the audience's reaction to the graduation speech. Has the narrator come full circle?
The narrator received positive feedback from the graduation speech, but negative feedback from the funeral speech. Instead of saying what the Whites wanted to hear the narrator spoke his mind and what he truly believed. Once the Brotherhood began to critique his actions and speech he stood up for himself instead of just complying with them as he did with his graduation speech.
5. What is the significant of Brother Jack's glass eye? How does it develop the sight image that is throughout the book?
The eye symbolizes Jack's limited vision of the world, a vision without a perspective other than Jack's greediness and self-interest. Jack's limited vision makes the narrator feel as if he was invisible to the Brotherhood and Jack all along.
Because everything feels unreal to the narrator and he is unsure of what to expect.
2. On p. 463, the members are said to have "flowed in one channel too long and too deeply." What does this mean?
That his feelings have been bottled up for too long.
3. Why does the Brotherhood object to the phrase "personal responsibility?"
Because no one has responsibility for anybody but themselves. Also that would imply that the narrator has power and authority, which the Brotherhood insists that he does not.
4. Contrast the reaction of the Brotherhood to the funeral speech to the audience's reaction to the graduation speech. Has the narrator come full circle?
The narrator received positive feedback from the graduation speech, but negative feedback from the funeral speech. Instead of saying what the Whites wanted to hear the narrator spoke his mind and what he truly believed. Once the Brotherhood began to critique his actions and speech he stood up for himself instead of just complying with them as he did with his graduation speech.
5. What is the significant of Brother Jack's glass eye? How does it develop the sight image that is throughout the book?
The eye symbolizes Jack's limited vision of the world, a vision without a perspective other than Jack's greediness and self-interest. Jack's limited vision makes the narrator feel as if he was invisible to the Brotherhood and Jack all along.
Wednesday, April 8, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 20 & 21 Reading Questions
Chapter 20
1. The narrator has been away from Harlem for several months. What "emergency" calls him back downtown?
To talk to Brother Maceo
2. What changes have taken place in the movement since he left. (Note how things have changed in the Jolly Dollar Bar.)
Things aren't going well within The Brotherhood, so many people have been put out. The Jolly Dollar Bar is suffering as well. The narrator senses these changes when he calls two familiar men "brothers" and they become offended.
3. What does Ellison mean when he says that returning to Harlem was "like returning to the city of the dead?"
The feel of Harlem has taken a complete change. The narrator no longer feels at home in Harlem. There is little evidence of The Brotherhood's activism and they are all hard to contact.
4. What is Clifton selling?
The Sambo Doll
5. How does the Sambo doll relate to the Sambo bank?
They both symbolize negative stereotypes and ideas towards Blacks. The doll was created as a representation of a Sambo slave, which demonstrates them as entertainers. The exaggerated movements conjure images of black rhythm and sensuality.
6. What do you think the doll symbolizes? Consider the fact that it is a puppet whose strings are pulled.
It symbolizes how Blacks are easily controlled and manipulated by Whites.
7. How does Tod Clifton die? What is the narrator's reaction to his death?
A police officer was trying to fine him for the puppet show. In the process, Clifton ends up punching the officer and in reaction the officer shoots him. The narrator is shocked by his death. He is dumbfounded that Clifton would leave The Brotherhood for this. He comes to the conclusion that Clifton's history will never be written by the White men that killed him.
Chapter 21
1. Why does the narrator feel guilt over Clifton's death?
Because instead of denouncing the significance of the doll, he acted personally and spat on it. He did could've used the moment to educate the people. He had aided to social backwardness by making the crowed laugh even more. Now, he would never get a chance to truly know why Clifton was selling the Sambo Doll. The narrator begins to contemplate how the situation would've been different if he had hit Clifton. They both would've been arrested with no shooting involved. He now believes that his anger sped up his death.
2. Look at the funeral speech. How many times does the narrator use Clifton's name? Why so many?
Twenty-two times. He uses to emphasize Clifton's as an individual rather than a part of a group. Clifton ultimately gave up the Brotherhood, but his life is still worth celebrating.
1. The narrator has been away from Harlem for several months. What "emergency" calls him back downtown?
To talk to Brother Maceo
2. What changes have taken place in the movement since he left. (Note how things have changed in the Jolly Dollar Bar.)
Things aren't going well within The Brotherhood, so many people have been put out. The Jolly Dollar Bar is suffering as well. The narrator senses these changes when he calls two familiar men "brothers" and they become offended.
3. What does Ellison mean when he says that returning to Harlem was "like returning to the city of the dead?"
The feel of Harlem has taken a complete change. The narrator no longer feels at home in Harlem. There is little evidence of The Brotherhood's activism and they are all hard to contact.
4. What is Clifton selling?
The Sambo Doll
5. How does the Sambo doll relate to the Sambo bank?
They both symbolize negative stereotypes and ideas towards Blacks. The doll was created as a representation of a Sambo slave, which demonstrates them as entertainers. The exaggerated movements conjure images of black rhythm and sensuality.
6. What do you think the doll symbolizes? Consider the fact that it is a puppet whose strings are pulled.
It symbolizes how Blacks are easily controlled and manipulated by Whites.
7. How does Tod Clifton die? What is the narrator's reaction to his death?
A police officer was trying to fine him for the puppet show. In the process, Clifton ends up punching the officer and in reaction the officer shoots him. The narrator is shocked by his death. He is dumbfounded that Clifton would leave The Brotherhood for this. He comes to the conclusion that Clifton's history will never be written by the White men that killed him.
Chapter 21
1. Why does the narrator feel guilt over Clifton's death?
Because instead of denouncing the significance of the doll, he acted personally and spat on it. He did could've used the moment to educate the people. He had aided to social backwardness by making the crowed laugh even more. Now, he would never get a chance to truly know why Clifton was selling the Sambo Doll. The narrator begins to contemplate how the situation would've been different if he had hit Clifton. They both would've been arrested with no shooting involved. He now believes that his anger sped up his death.
2. Look at the funeral speech. How many times does the narrator use Clifton's name? Why so many?
Twenty-two times. He uses to emphasize Clifton's as an individual rather than a part of a group. Clifton ultimately gave up the Brotherhood, but his life is still worth celebrating.
Invisible Man Chapter 18 & 19 Reading Questions
Chapter 18
1. Consider the symbolism of the link of chain Tarp gives the narrator. In what ways does it link the narrator to tarp? To his past? Is it significant that Wrestrum rejects that link?
The link of chain is a symbol for the continuous battle against injustice. By giving it to the narrator, Tarp is giving him the responsibility of carrying out the fight against oppression. It also links the narrator to his Southern culture. It is significant that Wrestrum rejects the link because it demonstrates that he does not acknowledge the pass and would rather forget about it. The link makes Wrestrum feel really uncomfortable and perceives it as a threat to The Brotherhood.
2. What seems to cause the fight between Wrestrum and the narrator? What do you think is the REAL reason for his fight?
Wrestrum believes that the narrator has become to powerful and that he is putting his self interest before the overall well being of the Brotherhood. I think the real reason is that he is just jealous and upset that the narrator forgot to mention his idea of creating an emblem to represent the Brotherhood.
3. At the end of the chapter, the narrator is sent out of Harlem. Why would The Brotherhood remove a successful member of the party and send him off to lecture on a subject about which he knows so little either by training or personal experience?
It is a form of limiting the narrator's power by having him focus on something he knows little about.
Chapter 19
1. In what ways is Ellison playing with the idea that white women are drawn to Black me?
He makes the meeting with the woman more like a date rather than a meeting to discuss ideology. The women invites him into her home and then offers the narrator wine and changes into something more comfortable. The diction used by the narrator implies this idea as well.
Ex: The woman describes the narrator's voice as "primitive." This shows that part of her interest in him is the fact that he's Black.
2. What reaction does the woman give when her husband comes home?
She doesn't seem to mind or really care at all.
3. What is the narrator's action?
The narrator curses himself for putting himself in that situation and decides to grab his clothes and leave. He later contemplates the idea that it might of all been a set up, but nothing ever happens.
4. Do you think this chapter is humorous, or is it serious social commentary?
I think this chapter had a little bit of both. It was humorous in the fact that a Black man was sent to speak about social equality when he doesn't even have it himself. There's a bit of social commentary in the situation with the woman. The husband didn't even react like someone normally would. He doesn't perceive the narrator as a threat and maybe not even as a human, well not to the level that they are at.
1. Consider the symbolism of the link of chain Tarp gives the narrator. In what ways does it link the narrator to tarp? To his past? Is it significant that Wrestrum rejects that link?
The link of chain is a symbol for the continuous battle against injustice. By giving it to the narrator, Tarp is giving him the responsibility of carrying out the fight against oppression. It also links the narrator to his Southern culture. It is significant that Wrestrum rejects the link because it demonstrates that he does not acknowledge the pass and would rather forget about it. The link makes Wrestrum feel really uncomfortable and perceives it as a threat to The Brotherhood.
2. What seems to cause the fight between Wrestrum and the narrator? What do you think is the REAL reason for his fight?
Wrestrum believes that the narrator has become to powerful and that he is putting his self interest before the overall well being of the Brotherhood. I think the real reason is that he is just jealous and upset that the narrator forgot to mention his idea of creating an emblem to represent the Brotherhood.
3. At the end of the chapter, the narrator is sent out of Harlem. Why would The Brotherhood remove a successful member of the party and send him off to lecture on a subject about which he knows so little either by training or personal experience?
It is a form of limiting the narrator's power by having him focus on something he knows little about.
Chapter 19
1. In what ways is Ellison playing with the idea that white women are drawn to Black me?
He makes the meeting with the woman more like a date rather than a meeting to discuss ideology. The women invites him into her home and then offers the narrator wine and changes into something more comfortable. The diction used by the narrator implies this idea as well.
Ex: The woman describes the narrator's voice as "primitive." This shows that part of her interest in him is the fact that he's Black.
2. What reaction does the woman give when her husband comes home?
She doesn't seem to mind or really care at all.
3. What is the narrator's action?
The narrator curses himself for putting himself in that situation and decides to grab his clothes and leave. He later contemplates the idea that it might of all been a set up, but nothing ever happens.
4. Do you think this chapter is humorous, or is it serious social commentary?
I think this chapter had a little bit of both. It was humorous in the fact that a Black man was sent to speak about social equality when he doesn't even have it himself. There's a bit of social commentary in the situation with the woman. The husband didn't even react like someone normally would. He doesn't perceive the narrator as a threat and maybe not even as a human, well not to the level that they are at.
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 17 Reading Questions
1. How much time has passed since the narrator's speech?
4 months
2. Describe Brother Hambro.
"A tall, friendly man, a lawyer and The Brotherhood's chief theoretician, he had proved to be a hard taskmaker." The narrator viewed him as a "fantastic teacher."
3. What is Ras' political doctrine and why is it in conflict with that of The Brotherhood?
Ras believes that all Blacks should group together versus The Brotherhood who believes that Whites and Blacks should work together. Ras views Whites as all being horrible and anyone that works with them is a traitor.
4. Who is Tod Clifton? Why do he and the narrator become friends? Note that "tod" means death in German. Why does Ras spare Clifton's life?
He is the leader of the youth. The narrator becomes friends with him because he is black and young with an education just like him. Ras spares Clifton's life because he's black. He doesn't believe in killing his own kind. He think's its absurd to be fighting Black vs. Black.
5. Ras pleads with the narrator to become a part of the black unity and leave The Brotherhood. His arguments are similar to those of the Black Panthers and other who came to the political forefront in the 1960s. The Communist Party did, in effect, betray the Blacks who helped build the party in the 1930s. What side do you believe Ellison is supporting?
I believe Ellison is supporting Ras/Black Panther side because of how he sets up the plot in the novel. The Brotherhood attempts to change the narrator and Ras is their to point out all the negative sides of it.
6. What is significant about the portrait of Douglass that hangs in Brother Tarp's office? How is Tarp like Douglass? Like the narrator's grandfather?
It symbolizes the hopes and dreams that he has for the future. They are similar because Tarp believes in the idea of a slave transforming into a wide viewed figure. He is like this grandfather in the fact that they believe they should stand up to Blacks.
4 months
2. Describe Brother Hambro.
"A tall, friendly man, a lawyer and The Brotherhood's chief theoretician, he had proved to be a hard taskmaker." The narrator viewed him as a "fantastic teacher."
3. What is Ras' political doctrine and why is it in conflict with that of The Brotherhood?
Ras believes that all Blacks should group together versus The Brotherhood who believes that Whites and Blacks should work together. Ras views Whites as all being horrible and anyone that works with them is a traitor.
4. Who is Tod Clifton? Why do he and the narrator become friends? Note that "tod" means death in German. Why does Ras spare Clifton's life?
He is the leader of the youth. The narrator becomes friends with him because he is black and young with an education just like him. Ras spares Clifton's life because he's black. He doesn't believe in killing his own kind. He think's its absurd to be fighting Black vs. Black.
5. Ras pleads with the narrator to become a part of the black unity and leave The Brotherhood. His arguments are similar to those of the Black Panthers and other who came to the political forefront in the 1960s. The Communist Party did, in effect, betray the Blacks who helped build the party in the 1930s. What side do you believe Ellison is supporting?
I believe Ellison is supporting Ras/Black Panther side because of how he sets up the plot in the novel. The Brotherhood attempts to change the narrator and Ras is their to point out all the negative sides of it.
6. What is significant about the portrait of Douglass that hangs in Brother Tarp's office? How is Tarp like Douglass? Like the narrator's grandfather?
It symbolizes the hopes and dreams that he has for the future. They are similar because Tarp believes in the idea of a slave transforming into a wide viewed figure. He is like this grandfather in the fact that they believe they should stand up to Blacks.
Invisible Man Chapter 16 Reading Questions
1. List all the images of blindness in this chapter? What do you think the narrator means when he says he has become "more human?"
"Then swiftly we were in the dark again..."
"Then suddenly I was blinded and felt myself coach into the man ahead of me."
"The light was so strong that I could no longer see the audience..."
"They think we're blind -- uncommonly blind."
"You know, if we aren't careful, they'll slip up on our blind sides..."
"Let's reclaim our sight; let's combine and spread our vision."
By stating the narrator is "more human" he is saying that he has gathered the support from others. He finally feels as if he has somebody on his side and that he belongs.
2. How does the narrator use the image of blindness as the central theme of his speech?
He tells the audience that they are blind to the oppression of the whites. They argue within each other without realizing that the White men are the problem. If they bind together, they will be able to move and see forward.
3. Be prepared to discuss the speech as a further expression of the narrator's developing identity.
The speech is an important development in the narrator's identity. He finally feels accepted by others and that he is really making a change in the people.
4. The rewritten quote from James Joyce is often discussed. Do you think that is is the duty of an individual to represent a particular race, gender, or group? Do you believe is is more important to concentrate on developing ones individual identity?
To a certain extent it is. Your race, gender, or group are part of what make you who you are. Denying it would be like denying a part of yourself. Compared to one's race, gender, or group, one's identity is more important because you have to understand who you are in order to move forward in your life.
5. What is The Brotherhood's reaction to the speech? What is your personal reaction? What criticism of The Brotherhood is implied here?
The Brotherhood was unhappy with the speech. They believed it was too emotional and needed to be more scientific. I personally believed his speech was good! He was able to point out the problems in society with a manner that the public understood. The fact that The Brotherhood did not like the speech demonstrates that they are more concerned with their image then with what they really say.
"Then swiftly we were in the dark again..."
"Then suddenly I was blinded and felt myself coach into the man ahead of me."
"The light was so strong that I could no longer see the audience..."
"They think we're blind -- uncommonly blind."
"You know, if we aren't careful, they'll slip up on our blind sides..."
"Let's reclaim our sight; let's combine and spread our vision."
By stating the narrator is "more human" he is saying that he has gathered the support from others. He finally feels as if he has somebody on his side and that he belongs.
2. How does the narrator use the image of blindness as the central theme of his speech?
He tells the audience that they are blind to the oppression of the whites. They argue within each other without realizing that the White men are the problem. If they bind together, they will be able to move and see forward.
3. Be prepared to discuss the speech as a further expression of the narrator's developing identity.
The speech is an important development in the narrator's identity. He finally feels accepted by others and that he is really making a change in the people.
4. The rewritten quote from James Joyce is often discussed. Do you think that is is the duty of an individual to represent a particular race, gender, or group? Do you believe is is more important to concentrate on developing ones individual identity?
To a certain extent it is. Your race, gender, or group are part of what make you who you are. Denying it would be like denying a part of yourself. Compared to one's race, gender, or group, one's identity is more important because you have to understand who you are in order to move forward in your life.
5. What is The Brotherhood's reaction to the speech? What is your personal reaction? What criticism of The Brotherhood is implied here?
The Brotherhood was unhappy with the speech. They believed it was too emotional and needed to be more scientific. I personally believed his speech was good! He was able to point out the problems in society with a manner that the public understood. The fact that The Brotherhood did not like the speech demonstrates that they are more concerned with their image then with what they really say.
Thursday, April 2, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 15 Reading Questions
1. Think about the symbolism of the Sambo bank. Is is related to Clifton's Sambo doll? What about the fact that is belonged to Mary Rambo? What about the bank's "grinning mouth" that swallows coins? Think back to the Battle Royal in Chapter 1.
Yes, they both illustrate the negative stereotypes of Blacks. The fact that the Mary Rambo owned the coin bank demonstrates the outdated values that she holds and because of her ignorance she doesn't necessarily see a problem with owning the Sambo bank. The bank has a "grinning mouth" that swallows coins this shows how money motivates Blacks. It also, highlights the pattern in slavery. The slaves that behaved received a reward, which made them happy. This relates back to Chapter 1 of the Battle Royal were the youth scramble to collect coins, reinforcing the stereotype of Blacks as servile and humble. When the narrator attempts to get rid of the coin bank it is always returned to him. This symbolizes the idea that no matter how hard you try to fight these stereotypes and destroy them, they always have a way of following you around.
Yes, they both illustrate the negative stereotypes of Blacks. The fact that the Mary Rambo owned the coin bank demonstrates the outdated values that she holds and because of her ignorance she doesn't necessarily see a problem with owning the Sambo bank. The bank has a "grinning mouth" that swallows coins this shows how money motivates Blacks. It also, highlights the pattern in slavery. The slaves that behaved received a reward, which made them happy. This relates back to Chapter 1 of the Battle Royal were the youth scramble to collect coins, reinforcing the stereotype of Blacks as servile and humble. When the narrator attempts to get rid of the coin bank it is always returned to him. This symbolizes the idea that no matter how hard you try to fight these stereotypes and destroy them, they always have a way of following you around.
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 14 Reading Questions
1. What pushes the narrator to accept The Brotherhood's offer?
The odor of Mary's cabbage causes the narrator to change his mind, but owing Mary is was really pushes him. The cabbage makes him realize that they'd been eating it so much because Mary was short on money. The IM feels guilty for not thinking of Mary when rejecting the job offer. It could allow him to pay off his rent.
2. Note that the building is called the Chthopia. In Greek mythology, that is another name for Hades' realm, the underworld. What descriptions and images can you find that convey the sense of entering an underworld type of realm? Why is entering the world of The Brotherhood like entering the underworld?
"The car nosed slowly into traffic, dropped swiftly down a hill." --> The underworld is underground.
"...lighted by dim bulbs set behind frosted glass, going past the uniformed doorman.." --> The underworld is assumed to be a dark place and the doorman could symbolize the guards to hell.
"I was uncertain whether we had gone up or down."
"one entire wall was hung with Italian-red draperies that fell in rich folds.." --> red = the flames of hell.
Entering The Brotherhood is like entering the underworld because the narrator must give up all ties to his old life. It reminded almost of selling your soul to the devil. The narrator must give up his old home, friends and family in order to join The Brotherhood.
3. The phone number has been replaced by a new name in an envelope. Why? Why are we never told of this new name?
The name in the envelope will serve as the narrators new identity. We are never told the name because to the IM this new identity remains unclear and he is unsure of what it entails.
4. How does the party scene remind the reader of how limited and/or hypocritical most whites are in the understand of the treatment of Blacks?
The Brotherhood allows itself all of these luxuries, while claiming that they are fighting for the equality of men. While they want the narrator to represent them, they want him to be in the image of Booker T. Washington. The Brotherhood does not truly understand how difficult it will be to equalize the treatment of Blacks. They aren't truly concerned with the immediate things happening to Blacks.
The odor of Mary's cabbage causes the narrator to change his mind, but owing Mary is was really pushes him. The cabbage makes him realize that they'd been eating it so much because Mary was short on money. The IM feels guilty for not thinking of Mary when rejecting the job offer. It could allow him to pay off his rent.
2. Note that the building is called the Chthopia. In Greek mythology, that is another name for Hades' realm, the underworld. What descriptions and images can you find that convey the sense of entering an underworld type of realm? Why is entering the world of The Brotherhood like entering the underworld?
"The car nosed slowly into traffic, dropped swiftly down a hill." --> The underworld is underground.
"...lighted by dim bulbs set behind frosted glass, going past the uniformed doorman.." --> The underworld is assumed to be a dark place and the doorman could symbolize the guards to hell.
"I was uncertain whether we had gone up or down."
"one entire wall was hung with Italian-red draperies that fell in rich folds.." --> red = the flames of hell.
Entering The Brotherhood is like entering the underworld because the narrator must give up all ties to his old life. It reminded almost of selling your soul to the devil. The narrator must give up his old home, friends and family in order to join The Brotherhood.
3. The phone number has been replaced by a new name in an envelope. Why? Why are we never told of this new name?
The name in the envelope will serve as the narrators new identity. We are never told the name because to the IM this new identity remains unclear and he is unsure of what it entails.
4. How does the party scene remind the reader of how limited and/or hypocritical most whites are in the understand of the treatment of Blacks?
The Brotherhood allows itself all of these luxuries, while claiming that they are fighting for the equality of men. While they want the narrator to represent them, they want him to be in the image of Booker T. Washington. The Brotherhood does not truly understand how difficult it will be to equalize the treatment of Blacks. They aren't truly concerned with the immediate things happening to Blacks.
Invisible Man Chapter 13 Reading Questions
1. Peter Wheatstraw foreshadows the encounter with the yam seller. How do these encounters differ? What changes are revealed in the narrator's identify? How is his change in identity linked with his desire to show Bledsoe as a fraud?
When the IM first encountered Wheatstraw he denied his culture and didn't really embrace. He even seemed a bit ashamed of his Souther culture when he was offered pork chops and denied them. The incident with the yam is completely different. The narrator embraces his black culture. He even returns to purchase two more yams after his first. He enjoys the freedom of eating them right there on the street. He notices how great it is to not have to hate something that you really don't. The IM is certain that Bledsoe is just a fraud pretending to not enjoy his Southern culture. He is amused by the idea of Bledsoe being a chitterling eater and mocks him for pretending that he is above it.
2. In the eviction scene, the narrator makes his second speech of the novel. Study it carefully. Compare it to the first speech. Take notes about the narrator's developing identity.
In the narrators first speech, he spoke of racial equality. In this speech, the IV acknowledges the struggle Blacks have faced. He points out that even though the are "free," it's nearly impossible to succeed in a world that is agains their skin color. He continuously states that "we're wise and law-abiding." The narrator wasn't scared to stand up for his beliefs this time. He wasn't saying things that the white men wanted to here, but things that motivated the Blacks.
3. How does the narrator meet Brother Jack? The Brotherhood is a thinly veiled version of the Communist Party. Richard Wright Ellison's first mentor, was an active member in the Communist Party. At Wright's request, Ellison wrote a number of articles for leftist publications between 1937 and 1944, but never joined. He objected to the Communist Party's limitations of individuality and personal expression.
He met him after he got off the roof. He was the figure the narrator saw "chasing" him, but it just turned out they were running the same way. The narrator was caught off guard and was distrustful of Jack. He didn't really understand his message either. Jack invites the narrator to get some coffee with him and proceeds to offer him a job, which the narrator refuses.
4. What new piece of paper replaces the letters from Bledsoe as the narrator's identity?
The piece of paper with Jack's contact information. It becomes a new way that the narrator may be able to define himself.
When the IM first encountered Wheatstraw he denied his culture and didn't really embrace. He even seemed a bit ashamed of his Souther culture when he was offered pork chops and denied them. The incident with the yam is completely different. The narrator embraces his black culture. He even returns to purchase two more yams after his first. He enjoys the freedom of eating them right there on the street. He notices how great it is to not have to hate something that you really don't. The IM is certain that Bledsoe is just a fraud pretending to not enjoy his Southern culture. He is amused by the idea of Bledsoe being a chitterling eater and mocks him for pretending that he is above it.
2. In the eviction scene, the narrator makes his second speech of the novel. Study it carefully. Compare it to the first speech. Take notes about the narrator's developing identity.
In the narrators first speech, he spoke of racial equality. In this speech, the IV acknowledges the struggle Blacks have faced. He points out that even though the are "free," it's nearly impossible to succeed in a world that is agains their skin color. He continuously states that "we're wise and law-abiding." The narrator wasn't scared to stand up for his beliefs this time. He wasn't saying things that the white men wanted to here, but things that motivated the Blacks.
3. How does the narrator meet Brother Jack? The Brotherhood is a thinly veiled version of the Communist Party. Richard Wright Ellison's first mentor, was an active member in the Communist Party. At Wright's request, Ellison wrote a number of articles for leftist publications between 1937 and 1944, but never joined. He objected to the Communist Party's limitations of individuality and personal expression.
He met him after he got off the roof. He was the figure the narrator saw "chasing" him, but it just turned out they were running the same way. The narrator was caught off guard and was distrustful of Jack. He didn't really understand his message either. Jack invites the narrator to get some coffee with him and proceeds to offer him a job, which the narrator refuses.
4. What new piece of paper replaces the letters from Bledsoe as the narrator's identity?
The piece of paper with Jack's contact information. It becomes a new way that the narrator may be able to define himself.
Invisible Man Chapter 11 & 12 Reading Questions
Chapter 11
1. What images of this chapter echo the Battle Royal?
All the doctors observing the narrator and he was confused as to what was going on. Blood filled his mouth. The doctors were shocking him.
2. The doctors at the factory hospital shock the narrator until he enters a warm watery world. Look for other images of the womb and birth.
"My mind was blank, as though I had just begun to live."
"But now the music became a distinct wail of female pain."
"I don't have enough room."
"I recoiled inwardly as though the cord were part of me. Then they had it free and the nurse clipped through the belly band and removed the heavy node."
"Then I was told to climb out of the case."
3. Afterwards, the narrator is a blank slate with no memory or identity. How do the doctor's questions develop the image of rebirth?
They emphasize the fact that the narrator doesn't remember the basic and essential information that make him who he is.
4. Why has the narrator been reborn? What aspects of his identity have died?
Because he no longer feels he fits the person he was before. Plus the extreme shocking has probably damaged his brain in some way. He is no longer afraid.
5. Buckeye the Rabbit is the same as Brer Rabbit. Remember the reference to the Tar Baby in chapter 10? In realizing that he is Buckeye the Rabbit, the narrator finds the wit and strength to escape from the machine. How is the machine like Trueblood's clock? How does Buckeye the Rabbit embody the folk wisdom of the narrator's childhood? How has he been reborn into the identity he at first denied upon arriving in New York?
It is what gave them both wit and strength. It is a representation of black culture. Now, the narrator understand that the blackness is part of his identity and he must embrace it.
6. What lesson has the narrator learned?
"Not of important men, nor of trustees and such; for knowing now that there was nothing which I could expect from them, there was no reason to be afraid.
Chapter 12
1. In what way is the narrator childlike?
He dumps water on a man that resembles Bledsoe. He also has become more dependent in others and has lost sight of his goals.
2. How does he permanently lose off the link with his old aspirations and dreams?
He leaves the men's house and becomes more reliant on Mary. He has also lost the drive that caused him to strive for success.
1. What images of this chapter echo the Battle Royal?
All the doctors observing the narrator and he was confused as to what was going on. Blood filled his mouth. The doctors were shocking him.
2. The doctors at the factory hospital shock the narrator until he enters a warm watery world. Look for other images of the womb and birth.
"My mind was blank, as though I had just begun to live."
"But now the music became a distinct wail of female pain."
"I don't have enough room."
"I recoiled inwardly as though the cord were part of me. Then they had it free and the nurse clipped through the belly band and removed the heavy node."
"Then I was told to climb out of the case."
3. Afterwards, the narrator is a blank slate with no memory or identity. How do the doctor's questions develop the image of rebirth?
They emphasize the fact that the narrator doesn't remember the basic and essential information that make him who he is.
4. Why has the narrator been reborn? What aspects of his identity have died?
Because he no longer feels he fits the person he was before. Plus the extreme shocking has probably damaged his brain in some way. He is no longer afraid.
5. Buckeye the Rabbit is the same as Brer Rabbit. Remember the reference to the Tar Baby in chapter 10? In realizing that he is Buckeye the Rabbit, the narrator finds the wit and strength to escape from the machine. How is the machine like Trueblood's clock? How does Buckeye the Rabbit embody the folk wisdom of the narrator's childhood? How has he been reborn into the identity he at first denied upon arriving in New York?
It is what gave them both wit and strength. It is a representation of black culture. Now, the narrator understand that the blackness is part of his identity and he must embrace it.
6. What lesson has the narrator learned?
"Not of important men, nor of trustees and such; for knowing now that there was nothing which I could expect from them, there was no reason to be afraid.
Chapter 12
1. In what way is the narrator childlike?
He dumps water on a man that resembles Bledsoe. He also has become more dependent in others and has lost sight of his goals.
2. How does he permanently lose off the link with his old aspirations and dreams?
He leaves the men's house and becomes more reliant on Mary. He has also lost the drive that caused him to strive for success.
Monday, March 30, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 10 Reading Questions
1. Consider the racial connotations of Liberty Pains. Think about the company name, trademark, slogans, government contracts, and Optic White. What do you think the company symbolizes?
The company symbolizes patriotism. It is implied that Liberty Paints has an idea of a "pure" color, meaning that certain colors are acceptable while others are not.
2. Why has the company been hiring Blacks?
So they won't have to pay union wages.
3. Think about how Optic White is manufactured? What do the 10 drops of "dead black liquid" symbolize?
It is manufactured in a paint plant with black laborers. It symbolizes the way black labor is used to make white products.
4. Now that Lucius Brockway works deep in the basement of the factory, hidden from view. Is this symbolic? How is Brockway like Bledsoe? How is he different?
It is symbolic for the way that the economic ladder is set up with the blacks at the bottom. They both want to protect their position. Brockway isn't trying to control the system. He is a humble man happy with his current standing and job.
5. How is Brockway himself like 10 drops?
He is an important part of the creation of the paint. He works at the base, which is essential to the entire process. Brockway is like the paint because his labor goes unacknowledged just like the black drops disappear in the white paint, but are still essential to it.
6. After the explosion on p. 230, the narrator is thrust "into a wet blast of black emptiness that is somehow a bath of whiteness." How does this immersion of a Black man into a world of whiteness continue the expressionism of the chapter?
It emphasizes the drastic difference between the life life of a Black man and a White man. The world belongs to the White man, which is why the narrator was immersed in a "world of whiteness."
The company symbolizes patriotism. It is implied that Liberty Paints has an idea of a "pure" color, meaning that certain colors are acceptable while others are not.
2. Why has the company been hiring Blacks?
So they won't have to pay union wages.
3. Think about how Optic White is manufactured? What do the 10 drops of "dead black liquid" symbolize?
It is manufactured in a paint plant with black laborers. It symbolizes the way black labor is used to make white products.
4. Now that Lucius Brockway works deep in the basement of the factory, hidden from view. Is this symbolic? How is Brockway like Bledsoe? How is he different?
It is symbolic for the way that the economic ladder is set up with the blacks at the bottom. They both want to protect their position. Brockway isn't trying to control the system. He is a humble man happy with his current standing and job.
5. How is Brockway himself like 10 drops?
He is an important part of the creation of the paint. He works at the base, which is essential to the entire process. Brockway is like the paint because his labor goes unacknowledged just like the black drops disappear in the white paint, but are still essential to it.
6. After the explosion on p. 230, the narrator is thrust "into a wet blast of black emptiness that is somehow a bath of whiteness." How does this immersion of a Black man into a world of whiteness continue the expressionism of the chapter?
It emphasizes the drastic difference between the life life of a Black man and a White man. The world belongs to the White man, which is why the narrator was immersed in a "world of whiteness."
Wednesday, March 25, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 7,8,9 Reading Questions
Chapter 7
1. Who does the narrator meet on the bus to New York? Why does the encounter make him uncomfortable?
He meets one of the vets that was at Golden Day, which makes him uncomfortable because that is part of the reason why he has been expelled. He wants nothing more than to forget these events that have only brought him problems.
2. On p. 152, the narrator is told New York is "not a place, it's a dream." Interpret this statement.
He is referring to New York as a dream because it is up North were all the folk run up to enjoy the freedom. He is probably referring to it as this because he has never been and is going off of what others say of NY and the perception the Blacks down South have of it.
3. How does the fate of the vet parallel the fate of the narrator? Think of how both are controlled.
They are both being transferred to a new location. The vet's move could possibly be linked to Bledsoe, since he did threat to do something.
4. Reread the final paragraph on p. 153. What do you make of the vet's advice?
It is similar to what Bledsoe is saying. He is able to recognize that the narrator believes too much in his dreams. They both tell him to not be such a fool. They are both working to uncover the blindness that the narrator is in.
5. On p. 155. the vet says, "there's always an element of crime in freedom." What does this statement mean to you? Do you agree or disagree?
That for black's there will always be something wrong with them having freedom. I agree with this statement because of the time period it is set in. Whites are always going to find a way to take this freedom away from the Black man. They will always try to find a wrong in their actions.
6. Describe the narrator's encounter with Ras.
The narrator hears him making a loud speech about driving White folks out of NY. He is amazed that a riot doesn't break out and that Ras is allowed to speak without being arrested and the crowed being dispersed. As he is walking away, the voice of Ras seems to become more violent.
Chapter 8
1. In the first six chapter, the narrator's identity is identified by the scholarship. Now the letters defines it. Describe him.
He has illusions that his hard work and good intentions will naturally help him advance in life. Just as the content of the letter is unknown, the future of the narrator remains unknown as well.
2. Notice the narrator's decision to get a watch. How does it fit with his new identity. Look for other images to watches and time.
He is no longer down in the South. He is in the North and isn't on c.p time, but on White folks time. This means he had to be on time everywhere he went. The watch corresponds with his suave attire.
-"I recalled the heavy gold chain that hung between Dr. Bledsoe's vest pockets and the air..."
-"Maybe the face of that clock set in the gray building across the street had a pair of searching eyes."
-"The streets were filled of hurrying people who walked as though they had been wound up...'
3. How does the narrator deny his Southern heritage? Why does he do this?
He is going to "slough off" his southern ways of speech. He is going to do this because he believes thats what they want up North. If Dr. Bledsoe could do it he believed he could do is as well.
4. Why do you think the narrator dreams of his grandfather?
To be reminded that he has deceived himself into believing that white men would help him.
Chapter 9
1. How does Peter Wheatstraw (with plans) make the narrator homesick?
By singing a song similar to the ones sang on the campus down South.
2. What is the symbolism of Wheatstaw's blueprints?
The illusions and dreams of people.
3. How does the narrator continue to deny his Souther heritage?
The narrator refuses to chose the special at the drugstore, despite the fact that he looked like a "pork chop man."
3. Look at the details from Emerson's office.
The office is full of huge maps and artifacts from around the world. The narrator assumes that the business must be an importing company.
5. Why does Emerson keep referring to Huck Finn?
Because of the way society was built and how it reflects the situation in the novel.
6. Walt Whitman wrote a series of homoerotic poems called the Calamus poems. Can you make any inferences about young Emerson from his reference to the Calamus Club?
He could possibly be gay and attempting to repress his inner feelings. This is supported by the way he is described with feminine attributes.
7. Why might young Emerson identify with the narrator and Blacks in general?
Because they are both fighting society and their perceptions of them. They are attempting to mask their actual identities.
1. Who does the narrator meet on the bus to New York? Why does the encounter make him uncomfortable?
He meets one of the vets that was at Golden Day, which makes him uncomfortable because that is part of the reason why he has been expelled. He wants nothing more than to forget these events that have only brought him problems.
2. On p. 152, the narrator is told New York is "not a place, it's a dream." Interpret this statement.
He is referring to New York as a dream because it is up North were all the folk run up to enjoy the freedom. He is probably referring to it as this because he has never been and is going off of what others say of NY and the perception the Blacks down South have of it.
3. How does the fate of the vet parallel the fate of the narrator? Think of how both are controlled.
They are both being transferred to a new location. The vet's move could possibly be linked to Bledsoe, since he did threat to do something.
4. Reread the final paragraph on p. 153. What do you make of the vet's advice?
It is similar to what Bledsoe is saying. He is able to recognize that the narrator believes too much in his dreams. They both tell him to not be such a fool. They are both working to uncover the blindness that the narrator is in.
5. On p. 155. the vet says, "there's always an element of crime in freedom." What does this statement mean to you? Do you agree or disagree?
That for black's there will always be something wrong with them having freedom. I agree with this statement because of the time period it is set in. Whites are always going to find a way to take this freedom away from the Black man. They will always try to find a wrong in their actions.
6. Describe the narrator's encounter with Ras.
The narrator hears him making a loud speech about driving White folks out of NY. He is amazed that a riot doesn't break out and that Ras is allowed to speak without being arrested and the crowed being dispersed. As he is walking away, the voice of Ras seems to become more violent.
Chapter 8
1. In the first six chapter, the narrator's identity is identified by the scholarship. Now the letters defines it. Describe him.
He has illusions that his hard work and good intentions will naturally help him advance in life. Just as the content of the letter is unknown, the future of the narrator remains unknown as well.
2. Notice the narrator's decision to get a watch. How does it fit with his new identity. Look for other images to watches and time.
He is no longer down in the South. He is in the North and isn't on c.p time, but on White folks time. This means he had to be on time everywhere he went. The watch corresponds with his suave attire.
-"I recalled the heavy gold chain that hung between Dr. Bledsoe's vest pockets and the air..."
-"Maybe the face of that clock set in the gray building across the street had a pair of searching eyes."
-"The streets were filled of hurrying people who walked as though they had been wound up...'
3. How does the narrator deny his Southern heritage? Why does he do this?
He is going to "slough off" his southern ways of speech. He is going to do this because he believes thats what they want up North. If Dr. Bledsoe could do it he believed he could do is as well.
4. Why do you think the narrator dreams of his grandfather?
To be reminded that he has deceived himself into believing that white men would help him.
Chapter 9
1. How does Peter Wheatstraw (with plans) make the narrator homesick?
By singing a song similar to the ones sang on the campus down South.
2. What is the symbolism of Wheatstaw's blueprints?
The illusions and dreams of people.
3. How does the narrator continue to deny his Souther heritage?
The narrator refuses to chose the special at the drugstore, despite the fact that he looked like a "pork chop man."
3. Look at the details from Emerson's office.
The office is full of huge maps and artifacts from around the world. The narrator assumes that the business must be an importing company.
5. Why does Emerson keep referring to Huck Finn?
Because of the way society was built and how it reflects the situation in the novel.
6. Walt Whitman wrote a series of homoerotic poems called the Calamus poems. Can you make any inferences about young Emerson from his reference to the Calamus Club?
He could possibly be gay and attempting to repress his inner feelings. This is supported by the way he is described with feminine attributes.
7. Why might young Emerson identify with the narrator and Blacks in general?
Because they are both fighting society and their perceptions of them. They are attempting to mask their actual identities.
Monday, March 23, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 5 & 6 Reading Questions
Chapter 5
1. Retail briefly the story of the founder. How does it parallel the story of the narrator?
The founder is described in a very high manner. He was born of slaves and almost died when he was a baby. He taught himself to read and write, even though he was in such an adverse situation. He became someone that everyone wanted to meet and looked up to. This parallels the story of the narrator in that he goes unnoticed and invisible to others. The narrator hasn't discovered the true meaning of his life.
2. In what ways has Bledsoe perverted the founder's dream?
He mocks the founder's dreams and instead uses it as a way for him to gain more power. He is a selfish man who is more concerned with himself, than the college.
3. Is there any symbolism in Bledsoe's name?
Bledsoe could be a reference to bleeding. Whenever he treats the narrator poorly, he is bleeding on his people, so disrespecting his own race.
4. Consider Rev. Homer Barbee's name and blindness. Is there a classical allusion?
Yes, to Homer in The Odyssey and The Iliad. His blindness symbolizes those who remain blind to the oppression around them. Because Rev. Barbee is blind, he is unable to recognize that the college is no longer the same it used to be. This is what allows him to actually speak to the blacks versus Bledsoe who is just concerned with what the white sponsors may be thinking.
5. Does the revelation of Barbee's blindness force the narrator to reevaluate Barbee's statements? Why?
Yes, because he realized he would be the one expelled for the incident with Mr. Norton. He also recognizes he has endangered the community of the college through his actions.
6. Examine the images of rebirth on p. 110. Why do you feel Ellison included them?
To foreshadow how the narrator might have to go through a rebirth if he is expelled.
Chapter 6
1. What shocking aspect of Bledsoe's character are revealed to the narrator?
That he is the one in control. "Negroes don't control this school or much of anything else -- haven't you learned even that? No sir, they don't control this school, nor white folks either. True they support it, but I control it." Bledsoe is the one who tells the "white folk" what to think.
2. What specific statements does Bledsoe make that show his concern is for himself rather than for the school or for the advancement of other Blacks?
"But I've made my place in it and I'll have every negro in the country hanging on tree limbs by morning if it means staying where I am."
3. Read the last paragraph on p. 146 beginning "How did i come to this?" What do you make of the paragraph in terms of the narrator's struggle to find his identity.
He is confused as to why he as landed in the situation he is in. Instead of being rewarded for all the good he has done, he is being punished. He does not understand why this has happened when all he has done is take the straight and narrow path to his goals. He has done exactly what he believes is expected of him. The narrator states that if he were to be expelled he would not know what else to do with his life. This is the only thing he knows of to attain success. He would be lost if he were to be expelled.
1. Retail briefly the story of the founder. How does it parallel the story of the narrator?
The founder is described in a very high manner. He was born of slaves and almost died when he was a baby. He taught himself to read and write, even though he was in such an adverse situation. He became someone that everyone wanted to meet and looked up to. This parallels the story of the narrator in that he goes unnoticed and invisible to others. The narrator hasn't discovered the true meaning of his life.
2. In what ways has Bledsoe perverted the founder's dream?
He mocks the founder's dreams and instead uses it as a way for him to gain more power. He is a selfish man who is more concerned with himself, than the college.
3. Is there any symbolism in Bledsoe's name?
Bledsoe could be a reference to bleeding. Whenever he treats the narrator poorly, he is bleeding on his people, so disrespecting his own race.
4. Consider Rev. Homer Barbee's name and blindness. Is there a classical allusion?
Yes, to Homer in The Odyssey and The Iliad. His blindness symbolizes those who remain blind to the oppression around them. Because Rev. Barbee is blind, he is unable to recognize that the college is no longer the same it used to be. This is what allows him to actually speak to the blacks versus Bledsoe who is just concerned with what the white sponsors may be thinking.
5. Does the revelation of Barbee's blindness force the narrator to reevaluate Barbee's statements? Why?
Yes, because he realized he would be the one expelled for the incident with Mr. Norton. He also recognizes he has endangered the community of the college through his actions.
6. Examine the images of rebirth on p. 110. Why do you feel Ellison included them?
To foreshadow how the narrator might have to go through a rebirth if he is expelled.
Chapter 6
1. What shocking aspect of Bledsoe's character are revealed to the narrator?
That he is the one in control. "Negroes don't control this school or much of anything else -- haven't you learned even that? No sir, they don't control this school, nor white folks either. True they support it, but I control it." Bledsoe is the one who tells the "white folk" what to think.
2. What specific statements does Bledsoe make that show his concern is for himself rather than for the school or for the advancement of other Blacks?
"But I've made my place in it and I'll have every negro in the country hanging on tree limbs by morning if it means staying where I am."
3. Read the last paragraph on p. 146 beginning "How did i come to this?" What do you make of the paragraph in terms of the narrator's struggle to find his identity.
He is confused as to why he as landed in the situation he is in. Instead of being rewarded for all the good he has done, he is being punished. He does not understand why this has happened when all he has done is take the straight and narrow path to his goals. He has done exactly what he believes is expected of him. The narrator states that if he were to be expelled he would not know what else to do with his life. This is the only thing he knows of to attain success. He would be lost if he were to be expelled.
Invisible Man Chapter 3 & 4 Reading Questions
Chapter 3
1. Look carefully at the description of the Golden Day. What is it? What has it been in the past? Is there any symbolism in the description?
Golden Day is a bar and insane asylum. It's been a church, bank, restaurant, gambling house, and possibly a jailhouse too. Yes, it's referred to as Golden Day. The color gold usually symbolizes wealth, which in this case is ironic. Instead of the wartime veterans going into trier golden years of retirement, their only escape from the mental institution is on golden day.
2. Describe the veterans at the Golden Day.
The veteran's profession's range from jobs of lesser merit to higher ones. The narrator once again takes notes of occupation as he did at the Battle Royal. The veterans are rowdy and drunk. They are easily tricked, which is evident when the narrator makes up a simple lie to get passed them. They are aggressive and violent. They jump Supercargo.
3. Read p. 81 carefully and comment on the way that the normal rules of society are reversed at the Golden Day.
At Golden Day, the vet's there speak freely to Mr. Norton without caring that he is a White man. This shocks the narrator especially when one of the vets begins to critique Mr. Norton for his idea that the student's at the college are his destiny.
4. The vet who had been a doctor gives the narrator a warning. What is it?
The warning is about oppression. No matter how high the narrator may rise, his skin tone will always be a barrier.
5. The vet is the first to introduce the narrator to the concept of invisibility and blindness. How do his comments tie into the statements the narrator makes in the Prologue?
In the prologue, the narrator is able to acknowledge this invisibility and blindness that the vet was speaking about. He is even able to recognize this invisibility and blindness in others now.
Chapter 4
1. Look at the description of the campus. How does it contrast with the Golden Day?
The campus is still described as beautiful and calm. It is a drastic contrast from Golden Day, which was chaotic and crowded. The narrator feels fear as he sees the approach of the college because of how Mr. Norton may react.
2. Why does the narrator call the campus "a flower-studded wasteland?"
He is referring to the transformation the campus witnessed. The land was once cultivated by the African Americans into plantations. Then, again, transformed into a beautiful campus for the wealthy White Northerners.
3. List as many images (w/pg. #) as you can find in this chapter of black against white.
"...while black and bald and everything white folks poled fun at.." pg. 101
"He grabbed his black homburg, starting for the door." pg. 101
"...her how the moon rises over all that green grass on the Founder's grave..." pg. 107
4. List all the images you can find (w/pg. #) of masks and veils in this chapter.
"...and composed his angry face like a sculptor, making it a bland mask..." pg. 102
"Then a veil seemed to fall." pg. 103
5. How does the scene in Bledsoe's office parallel the Battle Royal scene?
Bledsoe states that they must only show Whites what they want them to see, which was the same concept when the narrator was giving his speech at the Battle Royal scene. He was only supposed to say what they wanted to hear, which he noticed when he used the word "social equality" and the White's reacted in a negative way.
1. Look carefully at the description of the Golden Day. What is it? What has it been in the past? Is there any symbolism in the description?
Golden Day is a bar and insane asylum. It's been a church, bank, restaurant, gambling house, and possibly a jailhouse too. Yes, it's referred to as Golden Day. The color gold usually symbolizes wealth, which in this case is ironic. Instead of the wartime veterans going into trier golden years of retirement, their only escape from the mental institution is on golden day.
2. Describe the veterans at the Golden Day.
The veteran's profession's range from jobs of lesser merit to higher ones. The narrator once again takes notes of occupation as he did at the Battle Royal. The veterans are rowdy and drunk. They are easily tricked, which is evident when the narrator makes up a simple lie to get passed them. They are aggressive and violent. They jump Supercargo.
3. Read p. 81 carefully and comment on the way that the normal rules of society are reversed at the Golden Day.
At Golden Day, the vet's there speak freely to Mr. Norton without caring that he is a White man. This shocks the narrator especially when one of the vets begins to critique Mr. Norton for his idea that the student's at the college are his destiny.
4. The vet who had been a doctor gives the narrator a warning. What is it?
The warning is about oppression. No matter how high the narrator may rise, his skin tone will always be a barrier.
5. The vet is the first to introduce the narrator to the concept of invisibility and blindness. How do his comments tie into the statements the narrator makes in the Prologue?
In the prologue, the narrator is able to acknowledge this invisibility and blindness that the vet was speaking about. He is even able to recognize this invisibility and blindness in others now.
Chapter 4
1. Look at the description of the campus. How does it contrast with the Golden Day?
The campus is still described as beautiful and calm. It is a drastic contrast from Golden Day, which was chaotic and crowded. The narrator feels fear as he sees the approach of the college because of how Mr. Norton may react.
2. Why does the narrator call the campus "a flower-studded wasteland?"
He is referring to the transformation the campus witnessed. The land was once cultivated by the African Americans into plantations. Then, again, transformed into a beautiful campus for the wealthy White Northerners.
3. List as many images (w/pg. #) as you can find in this chapter of black against white.
"...while black and bald and everything white folks poled fun at.." pg. 101
"He grabbed his black homburg, starting for the door." pg. 101
"...her how the moon rises over all that green grass on the Founder's grave..." pg. 107
4. List all the images you can find (w/pg. #) of masks and veils in this chapter.
"...and composed his angry face like a sculptor, making it a bland mask..." pg. 102
"Then a veil seemed to fall." pg. 103
5. How does the scene in Bledsoe's office parallel the Battle Royal scene?
Bledsoe states that they must only show Whites what they want them to see, which was the same concept when the narrator was giving his speech at the Battle Royal scene. He was only supposed to say what they wanted to hear, which he noticed when he used the word "social equality" and the White's reacted in a negative way.
Saturday, March 21, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter 2 Reading Questions
1. How does the statue of the
founder fit into the sight imagery begun in the Prologue?
The narrator describes the statue with fascination. The statue is a bronze depiction of the black
founder of the college. It is cold and paternal with empty eyes. The idea of empty eyes coincides
with the idea of blindness and not being able to take note of ones invisibility. The following
quote "whether I am witnessing a revelation or a more efficient blinding," also calls into play
the idea of blindness and invisibility. The statue also function to highlight the backdrop of
slavery and segregation and that men were in power over social and educational systems.
2. Look at the “Maxims of Emerson” handout.
Are Norton’s comments ironic? Why or why
not?
Don't have this handout???
3. Notice that Norton smokes a
cigar. Does this connect him to other men of power? Who?
Yes, it draws a connection to chapter 1 where all the important lawyers and bankers were
smoking. It connects with the founders as well.
4. Do you sense anything unnatural
about Norton’s relationship with his daughter? On p.
51.
Yes, he almost describes her in a sexual way stating that "to look upon her was to drink and
drink and drink again." There is some odd reason of why she is the source of his philanthropy.
5. Norton seems amazed that Trueblood
has “looked upon chaos and [is] not destroyed.”
What do you make of this
comment?
It's almost like Norton is shocked that nothing happened to Trueblood. He is interested because
he possibly shared the same feelings toward his daughter, but did not act upon them because he
was scared of the consequences both inner and outer that he would face.
6. How might the clock in
Trueblood’s dream symbolize the modern mechanized world?
That the only escape of oppression is through the approval of whites and following their rules.
7. Do you find any symbolism in
Trueblood’s name?
Yes. Trueblood's blood is not longer true/pure because he has sinned. It is also symbolic
because to the white man his blood wouldn't be true because he is African-American.
8. Did you find the incest story
disturbing? Why does Ellison include it?
Yes. Ellison includes it to draw on the point that these sinful acts/thoughts not only occur in
African-American society, but it a White society as well. The only difference he is the burden of
the acts fall on black shoulders. This may also be included to explore the way
black stereotypes are used to physically and socially emasculate the black man.
9. Read the final paragraph on p. 67
that begins “Things got to happenin’ right off.” What
do you make of the White
community’s willingness to help Trueblood? How does this
relate to the grandfather’s deathbed speech?
I think their actions were selfishly motivated. Trueblood just amplified the inferiority they felt
towards blacks and his story was just another way to keep them down. This explains why the
blacks would want to kick him out. This relates to the grandfather's speech that you must stand
up to the oppressors not fall in line with what they say.
Wednesday, March 18, 2015
Invisible Man Chapter One Reading Questions
1. How does the Battle Royal illuminate to the narrator the differences between Blacks and Whites?
The Battle Royal symbolizes the social and political struggle that was faced during this time period. During the Battle Royal, the group of Blacks are forced to do things against their will and comply with the demands of the Whites. Initially, the narrator believed he had a choice, but soon comes to terms that he doesn't.
2. What shocking surprise does the narrator have that night?
He is forced to watch a naked women parade around dancing for the men. The young blacks, unlike the whites, are ashamed by what they are seeing. They attempt to look away and leave, but the whites force them to stay.
3. How does the Battle Royal
symbolize the narrator’s struggle for identity?
The narrators invisibility is foreshadowed when he notices how much the darkness really scares him. When the boxing match began, it too the narrator a couple of blows to realize he could actually see through the blindfold. This is drawing a connection to the prologue when he stated he has to notice his invisibility first to recognize others. Once the narrator discovers this, he is able to notice everyone else's actions, but without giving away that he can see. Throughout the various humiliating acts of that night, the narrator has gone back and fourth on how he feels about each one of them.
4. How does it symbolize the plight
of Blacks in that time period in general?
In general, the Battle Royal is symbolizing the oppression that Blacks are still put under in order to be rewarded with something. They are "blinded" by the Whites and force to comply with their rules, while they get to act like hooligans.
5. The narrator gives a number of
speeches throughout the novel. This is the first. Study it carefully and write
a brief summary. What is the topic and why is that topic ironic?
The narrators speech is about races working with one another in order to live better life's. He gets this point across by using various quotes from Booker T. Washington and an antidote about two ships helping each other. He states that we have "social responsibilities." The topic is ironic because the narrator is giving a speech on social equality to some of the most racist men. They even become offended and disturbed when the narrator utters those words.
6. In what ways are the Blacks at
the smoker humiliated? Why do the White men take such pleasure in that
humiliation?
By forcing them to watch a naked women dance, boxing, tricking them into getting electrocuted, insulting them, and laughing at them. The black men see pleasure in this because in their opinion blacks are inferior to them and they deserve all the humiliation they can get.
7. The narrator clings to the White
man’s chair and thinks of tossing the man on the electrified rug. How does this
scene symbolize the consequences of Black rebellion in a White world?
They only make things worse.
8. List all reference to the image
of blindness.
- "Had the price of looking
been blindness..."
- "But now I felt a sudden fit of blind terror..."
- "The boys groped about like blind, cautious
crabs crouching to protect their mid-sections..."
- The actually blindfold as well.
9. What is the significance of the
narrator’s dream at the end of the chapter?
To recall the previous ideas introduced by the grandfather. The phrase "keep the nigger boy running" could potentially symbolize the idea of the American Dream being impossible for African Americans. They will always be forced to keep working and working for it.
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