American Mythology Unit Test Flashcards
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following are characteristics of an American Mythology? (Select all that apply)

  • Set in the future
  • Filled with remarkable and exaggerated characters (correct)
  • Convey a positive message about its nation (correct)
  • Incredible events and their consequences (correct)

Which details from 'Rip Van Winkle' reflect characteristics of an American mythology?

Dame Van Winkle is an exaggerated character whose excessive nagging affects Rip Van Winkle's behavior. Rip mysteriously disappears for twenty years.

Which details from 'Rip Van Winkle' reflect characteristics of an American mythology?

The story is set before and after the Revolutionary War and features historical facts. Rip is a lovable hero representing both good and bad.

Which details from 'Rip Van Winkle' reflect characteristics of an American mythology?

<p>Rip spends an evening with strange fellows in the mountains and wakes up after twenty years. The Catskill setting is magical, representing America's possibilities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Select the two details from 'Rip Van Winkle' that develop the theme of America as a natural wilderness full of endless possibilities.

<p>Describes America as a place for imagination and new ideas (A), Imagery of the village and surrounding mountains depicts beauty (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How is the element of national mythology reflected in 'Rip Van Winkle'? Select the two correct answers.

<p>Covers the time before and after the American Revolution (B), Characters discussing citizen's rights and liberty (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the words 'perfect barometers' suggest about the mountains in 'Rip Van Winkle'?

<p>People look to the mountains to predict the weather.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which excerpt from 'Rip Van Winkle' shows humor in the Van Winkles' relationship?

<p>'Morning, noon, and night, her tongue was incessantly going.'</p> Signup and view all the answers

In 'Old Ironsides,' how is the style of Oliver Wendell Holmes described?

<p>Similar to the style used by many European poets.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did Oliver Wendell Holmes write about the USS Constitution?

<p>The ship was a link to the nation's history and a symbol of its strength.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What do the images of war in the first stanza of 'Old Ironsides' suggest?

<p>The chaos and danger of war.</p> Signup and view all the answers

When Holmes refers to the ship as the 'eagle of the sea,' what is he symbolically associating with?

<p>The strength of the United States.</p> Signup and view all the answers

By writing 'Old Ironsides,' what did Oliver Wendell Holmes assert about the United States?

<p>It was every bit as strong, proud, and important as the older nations of Europe.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the first stanza of 'The Village Blacksmith' highlight about the central figure?

<p>His physical strength.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The lines 'His brow is wet with honest sweat, / He earns whate'er he can' tell readers that the blacksmith is ___________.

<p>Industrious.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the description of the blacksmith wiping tears from his eyes suggest about him?

<p>He may be physically strong, but he is sensitive and caring.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Exaggerated Character

An exaggeration of a character's personality or traits in a story, often used to highlight specific themes or create humor.

Historical Context

Using real historical events as a backdrop for a fictional narrative, blending truth and imagination.

Positive Message

The positive message a story conveys about a nation or its people, often emphasizing national identity or virtues.

Universal Human Traits

A character's actions, personality, and role in the story that represent universal human qualities, making them relatable to a wide audience.

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Mysterious Events

A mysterious or extraordinary event that drives the plot forward and raises questions about the nature of reality or fate.

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The Catskill Mountains

A symbol that represents both the magical and the limitless opportunities of America, suggesting a sense of wonder and potential.

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American Wilderness and Possibilities

The idea that America is a place where imaginations, innovations, and opportunities thrive, ripe for exploration and personal growth.

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Vivid Imagery

The use of descriptive language to capture the beauty and simplicity of rural life and the natural landscapes of America, evoking a sense of peace and connection to nature.

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American Revolution

A period encompassing the American Revolution, a pivotal moment in the formation of the United States.

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Perfect Barometers

Referring to the ability of mountains to indicate weather changes, showcasing practical knowledge and the relationship between nature and human life.

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Comedic Take on Domestic Life

Using humor in the portrayal of everyday interactions and domestic life, adding a layer of lightheartedness to serious themes.

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European Poetic Style

Writing in a style characteristic of many European poets, showcasing the influence of European literary traditions.

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USS Constitution

A ship that symbolizes the strength and resilience of the United States, inspiring patriotic pride and national identity.

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War Imagery

Words and imagery reflecting the chaos and danger of war, emphasizing its impact on individuals and nations.

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National Strength

A statement asserting the United States' strength and significance, claiming that it is equal to or even surpasses older European nations in importance.

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The Village Blacksmith

A figure representing physical strength, commitment, and industriousness, highlighting the values of hard work and determination.

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Study Notes

Characteristics of American Mythology

  • Involves incredible or mysterious events and their repercussions.
  • Features remarkable or exaggerated characters.
  • Often set in historical contexts, particularly exciting times and places.
  • Delivers a positive message about the nation or its people.

Elements in "Rip Van Winkle"

  • Dame Van Winkle exemplifies an exaggerated character whose nagging influences Rip's behavior and story progression.
  • Rip mysteriously disappears for twenty years and returns to a changed village.
  • Set during the Revolutionary War, intertwining factual history with fiction.
  • Presents Rip as a lovable, flawed hero, representing universal human traits.
  • Rip's evening with strange individuals leads to a 20-year slumber, highlighting themes of change and mystery.
  • The Catskill Mountains symbolize both magic and the boundless potential of America.

Themes of Wilderness and Possibilities

  • America is portrayed as a fertile ground for imagination, innovation, and opportunity.
  • Vivid imagery captures the beauty and simplicity of village life and the American landscape.

National Mythology Reflection

  • The narrative spans the period surrounding the American Revolution.
  • Rip’s return to a village discussing concepts of rights and liberty reflects societal evolution.

Symbolism and Imagery

  • The phrase "perfect barometers" describes how locals use mountains to forecast weather changes.
  • Humor is evident in the description of the Van Winkle's interactions, emphasizing a comedic take on domestic life.

"Old Ironsides" by Oliver Wendell Holmes

  • Written in a style akin to that of many European poets.
  • Holmes defended the USS Constitution, emphasizing its historical importance and symbol of strength amidst scrapping rumors.
  • War imagery in the poem reflects chaos and danger.
  • Referring to the ship as the "eagle of the sea" symbolizes its representation of U.S. strength.

Assertions in "Old Ironsides"

  • Holmes claimed the United States is as strong and significant as older European nations.

The Village Blacksmith by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

  • Central figure highlighted for his physical strength and industrious nature.
  • The lines about the blacksmith reveal his work ethic and commitment.
  • Emotional depth is shown through his sensitivity to loss, contrasting his physical strength.

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Test your knowledge on American Mythology with these flashcards. This unit covers key characteristics of American myths and the details of famous stories like 'Rip Van Winkle'. Perfect for reviewing essential concepts and nuances in American folklore.

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