Song of Solomon Chapter 10 Flashcards

Circe

• Circe is a Greek nymph exiled to the island of Aiaia for using her magic against a romantic rival, turning them into a monster.
• On Aiaia, she masters her craft, transforming numerous individuals into monsters and creatures.
• Morrison describes Circe as extremely old (over 100 years) living in a dilapidated mansion with semi-wild dogs, emphasizing a connection to her magical past.

Macon Dead, Sr.'s Body

• Macon Dead, Sr. is shot by white farmers and subsequently buried by his children, Pilate and Macon Dead, Jr.
• Their burial method is flawed; the grave is too shallow and close to the river, leading to the body being swept away during a storm.
• The body is believed to be discovered by the wealthy Butler family, who dispose of it in a cave associated with Pilate and the hidden gold.

Theme of Death and Respect for the Dead

• Pilate conveys the notion that the deceased can haunt the living, strengthening the theme of guilt and the connection to death.
• Circe informs Milkman of the importance of a proper burial for Macon Dead, Sr. to avoid discontent among the dead, reinforcing cultural beliefs about respecting the deceased.
• The advice likely serves to protect Milkman's emotional well-being, as well as honoring the legacy of his father.

Milkman's Classism and Mistaken Assumptions

• Milkman misinterprets Circe and Fred Garnett's kindness as needing financial compensation, reflecting his ignorance of their values.
• Coming from wealth, he mistakenly believes their goodwill stems from a need for monetary assistance rather than moral integrity.
• This perspective underscores Milkman's disconnect from the values of those less affluent, revealing his preconceived notions of poverty.

Milkman's Journey and Hunger

• Following an arduous journey, Milkman experiences intense hunger, exacerbated by the odor of the Butler mansion, symbolizing his unsettling need for fulfillment.
• His quest leads him to Virginia, tracing Pilate's footsteps to uncover hidden gold and the fate of Macon Dead, Sr.'s remains.
• This journey highlights Milkman's growth and search for identity, driven by a desire to reconcile with his family's past.

Dive into the rich allusions and themes of Chapter 10 from Toni Morrison's 'Song of Solomon'. These flashcards focus on key terms and their meanings, enhancing your understanding of the text. Explore the intricate connections Morrison weaves through her narrative as you study with these informative cards.