Questions and Answers
What is the date at the beginning of the story?
Feb. 18, 1931
Who is trying to fly at the start of the novel?
Robert Smith
What is Robert Smith's profession?
Insurance agent
What is another name for the hospital in the story?
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Where is the person trying to fly to?
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Who is the first woman to have a colored baby at Mercy Hospital?
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What does Macon Dead do for work?
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Who is the person that comes up with the nickname Milkman?
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Where is Robert Smith wearing blue silk wings?
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What is the location described as 'not Doctor Street'?
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Why is it called 'not Doctor Street'?
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Who is Dr. Foster's pregnant daughter?
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Who are Ruth's 'half grown' children?
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Who is the sister-in-law of Ruth?
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Who sings 'Old Sugar Man Done Fly Away' to Robert?
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Who is Guitar Bains?
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Who is Macon Dead III?
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Who is Macon Dead II?
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Who is Henry Porter?
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Who is Sing?
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Who are Pilate's children?
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Study Notes
Chapter 1 Key Facts
- The story begins on February 18, 1931, setting the historical context.
- Robert Smith, an insurance agent, attempts to fly from the roof of a hospital.
- "No Mercy" Hospital, an influential location, serves as the backdrop for significant events.
- Robert aims to fly across Lake Superior, symbolizing aspirations and escape.
Character Introductions
- Ruth Foster becomes notable as the first woman of color to have a baby at Mercy Hospital; her children are Magdalene "Lena" Dead and First Corinthians Dead.
- Macon Dead, Ruth's husband, is a landlord with a troubled marriage, characterized as sexless and abusive.
- Pilate Dead, Ruth's sister-in-law, adds complexity to the family dynamics.
Notable Events and Symbols
- The term "Milkman" is coined by Freddy, the janitor, highlighting the character’s childhood and familial connections.
- The narrative mentions "not doctor street," where Mr. Foster, a former black doctor, lived, emphasizing historical racial dynamics.
- Innovations in character backgrounds, like Guitar Bains, who is intelligent and resourceful at the tender age of six.
Family Dynamics
- Macon Dead II, alongside his wife Ruth, reflects a legacy of complicated familial relationships and pasts, with connections to former smugglers.
- The mention of Pilate’s children, including Rebecca "Reba" and grandchild Hagar, underscores generational connections and their impact on the story’s development.
Minor Characters and Their Roles
- Henry Porter, a tenant of Macon Dead II, exhibits themes of struggle, as he threatens to harm himself while drunk, demonstrating the precariousness of their lives.
- The tragic background of "Sing," mother to Macon Dead II, who died during childbirth, adds depth to Macon’s characterization.
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Description
Test your knowledge of the key elements in Chapter 1 of 'Song of Solomon'. This quiz includes questions about characters, dates, and significant locations in the story. Perfect for literature enthusiasts and students alike!
