Midterm+Review


 * EAST HARTFORD ADULT EDUCATION **  ** English Literature Midterm Review **   ** Fall 2011 **

// Black Like Me // by John Howard Griffin
 * 1) Read the Preface and the journal on October 28th. Explain why Griffin wrote this book? What is its purpose?
 * 2) On page 4 (October 30th) one of the FBI men tells Griffin, “As soon as they see you, you’ll be a Negro and that’s all they’ll ever want to know about you.” Interpret this quote. What does it say about life in the South?
 * 3) On page 6 (November 2nd) Griffin has a conversation with his doctor about the racism that occurs within the black community at this time (Black-on-Black violence). Explain this racism. Why do you think this is taking place? Why do you think several people buy into this idea? (The articles read in class about this subject are permitted during testing to answer this question.)
 * 4) On page 13 (November 2nd) this same doctor tells Griffin that “the lighter the skin the more trustworthy the Negro.” According to the article // Skin Deep Discrimination (ABC News) // and the Colorism activities, write one explanation (of the many given) for why this distorted belief is still followed today?
 * 5) The rules of “riding the bus” posted on a black Catholic church was a silent protest initiated by several black ministers, including Reverend Martin Luther King Junior (p21, November 8th). Choose one of the rules and explain why you think it was selected as one of only 7 rules in this risky endeavor.
 * 6) On page 41 (November 10-12th) Griffin explains why many black people don’t pursue education through music, art, or literature. Explain this in your own words.
 * 7) Non-verbal racism is racism that is not expressed in words, but in actions and facial expressions. Give three examples of non-verbal racism evident in the novel.
 * 8) What conclusion does Griffin admit he’s come to about Whites on pages 100-101 (November 21st), and do you agree with him? Explain your answer.
 * 9) What deep realization does Griffin make as he takes a bath towards the bottom of page 110 (November 24th)?
 * 10) How is Griffin treated when he appears White as he enters the Black street on Nov. 29th? Why?