Podcast
Questions and Answers
Who prepares to fly off a building with 'blue wings' in Chapter 1?
Who prepares to fly off a building with 'blue wings' in Chapter 1?
What significant relationship does Milkman realize in Chapter 10?
What significant relationship does Milkman realize in Chapter 10?
Milkman realizes that Macon Jr. had a close relationship with Macon Dead I and loved him.
In Chapter 11, who does Milkman end up fighting?
In Chapter 11, who does Milkman end up fighting?
Who accuses Milkman of stealing gold in Chapter 12?
Who accuses Milkman of stealing gold in Chapter 12?
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What does Pilate do at Hagar's funeral in Chapter 13?
What does Pilate do at Hagar's funeral in Chapter 13?
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In Chapter 14, Solomon and Ryna had ___ children.
In Chapter 14, Solomon and Ryna had ___ children.
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Milkman feels unafraid of Guitar's gun after Pilate's death.
Milkman feels unafraid of Guitar's gun after Pilate's death.
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What does Milkman do after learning about his family history in Chapter 15?
What does Milkman do after learning about his family history in Chapter 15?
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What incident leads Milkman to realize his father's anger towards Ruth in Chapter 3?
What incident leads Milkman to realize his father's anger towards Ruth in Chapter 3?
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What secret society does Guitar belong to in Chapter 6?
What secret society does Guitar belong to in Chapter 6?
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What realization does Milkman come to about his mother's personal life?
What realization does Milkman come to about his mother's personal life?
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Milkman's love for Hagar remained constant throughout their relationship.
Milkman's love for Hagar remained constant throughout their relationship.
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What does Guitar tell Milkman about the society he belongs to?
What does Guitar tell Milkman about the society he belongs to?
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Which character threatens Hagar?
Which character threatens Hagar?
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Guitar wants to bomb a white church to avenge the Birmingham church bombing, in which four little _____ girls perished.
Guitar wants to bomb a white church to avenge the Birmingham church bombing, in which four little _____ girls perished.
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What does the ghost of Macon Dead I murmur to Pilate?
What does the ghost of Macon Dead I murmur to Pilate?
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Who does First Corinthians secretly date?
Who does First Corinthians secretly date?
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Milkman has a positive and empowering view of his white counterparts.
Milkman has a positive and empowering view of his white counterparts.
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Match the following characters with their notable traits or actions:
Match the following characters with their notable traits or actions:
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What is found in the tarp bundle after the robbery?
What is found in the tarp bundle after the robbery?
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What does Ruth imply about her past choices?
What does Ruth imply about her past choices?
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What does Guitar initially consider using the stolen money for?
What does Guitar initially consider using the stolen money for?
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What do Guitar and Milkman find instead of gold in the bundle?
What do Guitar and Milkman find instead of gold in the bundle?
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Milkman feels guilt after discovering the nature of the bundle.
Milkman feels guilt after discovering the nature of the bundle.
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Milkman is also known as _____ Dead.
Milkman is also known as _____ Dead.
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Who is First Corinthians secretly working for?
Who is First Corinthians secretly working for?
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What does Macon Jr. do when he discovers First Corinthians is dating Henry Porter?
What does Macon Jr. do when he discovers First Corinthians is dating Henry Porter?
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Macon Dead I was raised by his mother.
Macon Dead I was raised by his mother.
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What does Guitar associate with the weight of vanity?
What does Guitar associate with the weight of vanity?
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The protagonist's mother is _____ Foster Dead.
The protagonist's mother is _____ Foster Dead.
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What does Pilate's character represent in the novel?
What does Pilate's character represent in the novel?
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Who helps Odysseus find his way back to Ithaca?
Who helps Odysseus find his way back to Ithaca?
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What crucial information does Morrison's Circe provide Milkman?
What crucial information does Morrison's Circe provide Milkman?
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Who is Sing?
Who is Sing?
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Who is Henry Porter?
Who is Henry Porter?
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What does Robert Smith attempt to do?
What does Robert Smith attempt to do?
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What role does Freddie play in the story?
What role does Freddie play in the story?
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What is Solomon's flight a demonstration of?
What is Solomon's flight a demonstration of?
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Who goes mad after being abandoned by Solomon?
Who goes mad after being abandoned by Solomon?
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What does Hagar's hair represent?
What does Hagar's hair represent?
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Milkman doesn't drink the ______ because it is there.
Milkman doesn't drink the ______ because it is there.
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The food that Guitar and Milkman eat at Pilate's house are ______.
The food that Guitar and Milkman eat at Pilate's house are ______.
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The ghost of Macon Dead tells Pilate that the bones cannot be left in the ______.
The ghost of Macon Dead tells Pilate that the bones cannot be left in the ______.
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What does Milkman's Gold watch represent?
What does Milkman's Gold watch represent?
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What does Hagar's shopping trip represent?
What does Hagar's shopping trip represent?
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What is the children's song about?
What is the children's song about?
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What does Lincoln's Heaven refer to?
What does Lincoln's Heaven refer to?
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What emotional state does Milkman find himself in after visiting Susan Byrd?
What emotional state does Milkman find himself in after visiting Susan Byrd?
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Study Notes
Chapter 1
- Robert Smith, a black insurance agent, attempts to fly from the roof of Mercy Hospital.
- Guitar Ruh is the first black individual treated at Mercy Hospital; her son is born the next day.
- Freddie, referred to as the "gold-toothed man," disrupts Guitar's private moment with her infant son, Milkman.
- Macon Jr. controls tenants at his real estate office while reflecting on his past traumatic experiences, including his mother Sing's death during childbirth.
- Pilate, Milkman's aunt, is a unique figure in the family, living simply in the woods with her daughter Reba and granddaughter Hagar.
Chapter 10
- Milkman plans a trip to Montour County, PA, to search for treasure and promises to share it with Guitar.
- He travels by plane to Pittsburgh and then by bus to Danville, meeting Reverend Cooper, who shares family history and insights about Macon Dead I's past.
- Circe, a key character in Milkman’s family history, clarifies Macon Dead I's real name as Jake and recounts how they arrived in Pennsylvania.
- Milkman faces challenges on his journey, including the realization that his search has led to significant personal loss.
Chapter 11
- Milkman arrives in Shalimar, Virginia, where he quickly finds himself in a conflict with local men, including Saul.
- Though injured, he earns the respect of older men in Solomon's Store who invite him on a hunting trip.
- Guitar's violent intentions are revealed when he attacks Milkman, saying "your day has come."
- Milkman learns about his grandmother Sing's ancestry and decides to seek out a cousin named Susan Byrd.
Chapter 12
- Milkman visits Susan Byrd and meets Grace Long; he learns of the conflicting family histories concerning his great-grandmother Sing.
- Guitar accuses Milkman of taking gold from the cave and vows revenge.
- Milkman hears a local children's song that connects him emotionally to his family's legacy and the story of Solomon and Ryna.
Chapter 13
- Hagar's descent into illness ultimately leads to her death, a significant event that affects Milkman deeply.
- Ruth, Milkman's mother, reluctantly accepts financial help for Hagar's funeral from Macon Jr.
- Pilate disrupts the funeral service with a heartfelt song, emphasizing love and grief.
Chapter 14
- Susan Byrd shares crucial family history, revealing that Sing and Jake descended from Solomon’s lineage.
- Solomon, a slave, had tried to take his son Jake away but accidentally dropped him, leading to Jake being raised by an Indian woman named Heddy.
- The chapter details the blend of heritage and the struggles faced by Milkman's ancestors.
Chapter 15
- Milkman, full of newfound energy from his family history, returns to Sweet's place with a sense of purpose.
- He decides to return to Michigan, selling his car in preparation.
- Pilate's actions to remind Milkman of his responsibility for Hagar show their complex familial bond.
- Milkman learns the location of his ancestral burial site, emphasizing the connection to his past.
Chapter 2
- The Dead family's journey highlights socio-economic disparities, especially as they travel to a wealthy community.
- Milkman's troubled childhood is marked by complex family dynamics and reflections on his future.
- The tension between him and his father, Macon Jr., begins to form, particularly over family secrets.
Chapter 3
- Milkman's job for Macon Jr. deepens his involvement in the Southside community and highlights racial injustices discussed among locals.
- Conflicts within Milkman’s family arise, revealing dark secrets and challenging Milkman's perception of his parents.
Chapter 4
- Hagar's infatuation with Milkman illustrates the toll of unreciprocated love, paving the way for tension and eventual tragedy.
- The chapter explores the themes of family, love, and racial identity through Milkman's relationships.
Chapter 5
- Hagar's mental deterioration stems from her obsession with Milkman, impacting their ties and those around them.
- Milkman's experiences highlight the struggles of identity and belonging amidst familial tensions and societal challenges.
Chapter 6
- Milkman confronts Guitar about his secretive behaviors and the radical group he belongs to, revealing ideological differences.
- Guitar’s beliefs challenge Milkman to reconsider his perspectives on race and justice.
Chapter 7
- Milkman's desire for independence leads him to seek adventure away from home, unaware of the heavy family legacies he carries.
- Insights into the past reveal familial bonds that impact present motivations and conflicts.
Chapter 8
- Guitar's radical thoughts collide with Milkman's aspirations for wealth, showcasing their diverging paths.
- The friendship strains under the weight of their individual quests for meaning and justice.
Chapter 9
- First Corinthians’ secretive job reflects the ongoing challenges faced by women in navigating societal roles.
- The tension within the Dead family escalates as revelations come to light about their illegal activities and its effects on relationships.### Character Relationships and Conflicts
- Milkman's relationships are strained, resulting in breakups and evictions, highlighting family dysfunction.
- Lena points out Milkman's persistent insensitivity, comparing it to his childhood behavior.
- Ruth's attachment to her father contrasts sharply with her relationship with Macon Jr., emphasizing her emotional isolation.
Significant Quotes and Their Contexts
- "If you surrender to the air, you can ride it." (Milkman, reflecting before his suicide).
- "Solomon done fly..." illustrates the legendary aspect of his ancestry and the theme of escape.
- Macon Jr.'s thoughts on names reflect his belief in their significance, defining identities and relationships.
- Guitar's dialogue reveals his existential approach to racial violence, questioning morality and societal circumstances.
Thematic Elements
- The concept of "deserving" emerges as a recurring motif through characters' reflections on self-worth and treatment.
- The search for identity is central, with Milkman exploring his family's history to find meaning and connection.
- Abandonment and its effects are highlighted through Hagar's tragic devotion to Milkman and Ruth's dependence on her father.
Symbolism
- Solomon's flight symbolizes liberation but also carries the weight of loss and abandonment for those left behind.
- Pilate represents nurturing and strength, intricately tied to family legacies and personal histories.
- Hagar's hair signifies societal pressures and insecurities, revealing the struggle for acceptance.
Character Definitions
- Milkman Dead: The protagonist on a journey of self-discovery, initially egocentric but evolves through understanding his family's past.
- Pilate Dead: A nurturing figure who embodies strength and serves as a guardian for Milkman; her actions influence his development.
- Macon Jr.: Obsessed with wealth and emotionally detached due to trauma; his childhood stories drive Milkman's quest for identity.
- Guitar Bains: Milkman's best friend with a complex relationship to race and violence, providing critical commentary on societal injustices.
- Hagar: Embodies the theme of unrequited love; her descent into despair showcases the consequences of unchecked emotion.
Motifs and Recurring Elements
- Flight is a recurring motif, representing both freedom and the burdens of heritage (e.g., Solomon's flight).
- The "third beer" metaphorically explores themes of neglect and emotional detachment in Milkman's relationships.
- The "sweetish smell" acts as a marker for supernatural events, linking the physical world to deeper mystical meanings.
Family Legacy and Historical Context
- The Dead family's legacy is tied to trauma and resilience; characters cope with their history in different ways.
- Characters confront societal and familial expectations, navigating the complexities of race and class in their relationships.
- Dr. Foster serves as a symbol of internalized racism within the community, contrasting individual achievement with personal beliefs.
Conclusion
- Relationships and identity are intricately woven throughout the narrative, emphasizing personal and collective histories.
- The characters' journeys reflect broader themes of love, abandonment, and the search for belonging in a divided society.### Materialism and Transformation
- Represents a character’s materialistic mindset, which progresses to symbolize personal growth upon being abandoned.
- The act of leaving material possessions signifies liberation from materialism.
Hagar’s Shopping Trip
- Hagar’s shopping trip symbolizes her attempt to win back Milkman's love through new appearances.
- Believes that material possessions can make her worthy of affection.
Children’s Song
- The children's song narrates Milkman’s ancestry, linking him to Solomon, his great-grandfather.
- Solomon is depicted as an essential figure in the family lineage.
Henry Porter
- Tenant of Macon Dead Sr. and a member of the “Seven Days” organization.
- In a relationship with First Corinthians.
Circe
- A midwife who delivered Pilate, characterized as ancient and magical.
- Worked for the white family responsible for Jake's murder.
Sing
- Milkman’s grandmother, who has Native American heritage.
- Escaped her home to be with Jake.
Sweet
- Represents Milkman’s romantic interest, emphasizing a relationship based on mutual respect.
Lincoln’s Heaven
- The ancestral farm where Macon Dead Sr. and Pilate were raised, known for its historical significance.
Heddy
- Mother of Sing Byrd, from Native American descent.
- Cared for Jake after Solomon’s departure.
Robert Smith
- Another member of the "Seven Days," he famously jumps off Mercy Hospital to "fly" across the lake.
Jake
- Father of Macon Dead Sr. and Pilate, murdered by white people.
- Married to Sing Byrd.
Chapter 1 Overview
- Introduces Robert Smith, who attempts to fly off a rooftop, symbolizing yearning for freedom.
- Highlights various characters, including Guitar and Macon Jr., establishing social dynamics.
- Explores themes of wealth and class through characters’ interactions.
Chapter 10 Overview
- Milkman plans a journey to Montour County for treasure, emphasizing friendship, trust, and suspicion with Guitar.
- Encounters Reverend Cooper, gaining insight into his family's past and Macon Dead I’s character.
Chapter 11 Overview
- Milkman experiences a transformative confrontation in Shalimar, reinforcing themes of identity and heritage.
- His arrival prompts a clash with local men, resulting in a fight that develops his character.
Chapter 12 Overview
- Milkman learns about his family connections and the legacy of his ancestors.
- The song he hears connects him deeply to his lineage and roots.
Chapter 13 Overview
- Hagar’s decline and funeral reflect themes of love, loss, and obligation within familial ties.
- Pilate's emotional connection to Hagar underscores familial love and legacy.
Chapter 14 Overview
- Revelation of Sing’s past and the intertwined stories of Solomon and his lineage, exploring themes of flight and bondage.
- Details about Jake's drop and subsequent adoption reveal critical family histories.
Chapter 15 Overview
- Milkman feels invigorated by family revelations and confronts the realities of life and loss.
- Encounters with Pilate emphasize themes of responsibility and the consequences of choice.
Chapter 2 Overview
- Illustrates the Dead family's dynamics and Milkman’s perception impacted by class structures.
- Establishes a foundation for Milkman's character development and social awareness.
Chapter 3 Overview
- Documents Milkman’s teenage years, marked by relationships and familial conflict.
- Emphasizes the impact of racial issues and familial legacies on Milkman’s outlook.
Chapter 4 Overview
- Details Milkman’s complex relationship with Hagar, highlighting societal class differences.
- Discusses Milkman's disillusionment and his relationship with Guitar.
Chapter 5 Overview
- Hagar’s obsessive love for Milkman evolves into despair, illustrating the destructive nature of unrequited love.
- The relationships among Pilate, Hagar, and Milkman create tension and emotional depth.
Chapter 6 Overview
- Guitar’s involvement with the "Seven Days" illustrates the struggle for racial justice and revenge.
- Milkman's challenge to Guitar's ideology hints at moral complexities within their friendship.
Chapter 7 Overview
- Milkman's desire for independence conflicts with family legacies, pushing him to explore his identity further.
- The backstory shared by Macon Jr. adds depth to family history and motivations.
Chapter 8 Overview
- Guitar's violent ideations in response to racial injustice juxtapose Milkman's quest for wealth and identity.
- Their discussions highlight developing themes of friendship, loyalty, and moral ambiguity.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge on Chapter 1 of Toni Morrison's 'Song of Solomon'. This quiz covers key characters, events, and themes introduced at the start of the novel. Perfect for students looking to deepen their understanding of the text.
