Questions and Answers
Which of the following are characteristics of an American Mythology? (Select all that apply)
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?
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Select the two details from 'Rip Van Winkle' that develop the theme of America as a natural wilderness full of endless possibilities.
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How is the element of national mythology reflected in 'Rip Van Winkle'? Select the two correct answers.
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What do the words 'perfect barometers' suggest about the mountains in 'Rip Van Winkle'?
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Which excerpt from 'Rip Van Winkle' shows humor in the Van Winkles' relationship?
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In 'Old Ironsides,' how is the style of Oliver Wendell Holmes described?
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Why did Oliver Wendell Holmes write about the USS Constitution?
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What do the images of war in the first stanza of 'Old Ironsides' suggest?
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When Holmes refers to the ship as the 'eagle of the sea,' what is he symbolically associating with?
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By writing 'Old Ironsides,' what did Oliver Wendell Holmes assert about the United States?
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What does the first stanza of 'The Village Blacksmith' highlight about the central figure?
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The lines 'His brow is wet with honest sweat, / He earns whate'er he can' tell readers that the blacksmith is ___________.
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What does the description of the blacksmith wiping tears from his eyes suggest about him?
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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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Description
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.
