American Literature Overview

Which island did Columbus NOT land on during his exploration?

What literary technique is Edward Taylor known for incorporating in his poetry?

What is a prominent theme in Washington Irving's 'Rip Van Winkle'?

Which of the following poems was written by Anne Bradstreet?

Which of the following statements is true about Washington Irving?

What was significant about Phillis Wheatly's first published work in 1773?

Which poem by Walt Whitman is noted for its rhyme and meter, contrasting with his typical style?

What key themes are primarily found in Emily Dickinson's poetry?

What describes the tone commonly found in Dickinson's poetry?

What element is characteristic of Walt Whitman's poetry style?

In which year was Phillis Wheatly kidnapped and brought to Boston?

Which historical figure did Walt Whitman express a strong emotional response to after their death?

What influence did Savannah Wheatly have on Phillis Wheatly's life?

Christopher Columbus

Columbus's "Letter of Discovery" was written in February 1493.
He landed in the Bahamas and explored Cuba and Hispaniola.
The letter detailed natural resources, though some descriptions were exaggerated or inaccurate.
The letter was addressed to Luis Santangel, a court official.

Edward Taylor

His work was influenced by metaphysical poetry.
One poem is "Upon Wedlock and Death of Children."

Anne Bradstreet

Known for poems like "The Author to Her Book" and "Before the Birth of One of Her Children."

Edgar Allan Poe

Famous for "The Raven," "The Tell-Tale Heart," and "The Black Cat."

Washington Irving

His work combines Age of Reason and Romantic elements.
"Rip Van Winkle" is a notable work.

Phillis Wheatley

Born enslaved in Africa, brought to Boston in 1761.
Wheatley's works were influenced by Milton, Poe, and Gray.
"On Being Brought from Africa to America" and "To His Excellency George Washington" are notable poems.

Walt Whitman

Born on Long Island, not from aristocratic New England stock.
Leaves of Grass was a significant work, expanded throughout his life.
He was described as an American world poet and successor to Homer, Virgil, and Shakespeare.
Whitman was affected by Lincoln's death.
His work reflects social awareness, concern with equality, and nature.
Poetic technique includes free verse, informal diction, unconventional subject matter.
Noteworthy poems are "Song of Myself" (sections 1-10), "Captain My Captain," "I Hear America Singing," "A Noiseless Patient Spider," and "When Lilacs Last in the Dooryard Bloom'd." Pay attention to the use of rhyme and meter in "Captain My Captain," and extended metaphors.

Emily Dickinson

Dickinson's main themes were Nature, Love, Death/Faith.
She was educated at Amherst Academy (or a similar institution) and was highly reclusive in her later years.
Her poetry features short lines, dashes, and ambiguity.
Notable examples include poems #236, #359, #479, and #591.

This quiz explores key figures and works in American literature, including Christopher Columbus's writings, Edward Taylor's metaphysical poetry, and the contributions of Anne Bradstreet and Edgar Allan Poe. Test your knowledge on significant themes and historical contexts from each author.