The Bluest Eye & Song of Solomon Flashcards

Questions and Answers

Who is Macon Dead, Jr.?

A wealthy businessman whose greed for money overpowers his personal relationships.

Who is Milkman's best friend?

Guitar

Who is Macon Dead I?

Born with the name Jake, he is the grandfather of Milkman and develops a thriving farm only to be cheated out of it.

Who is Circe?

The maid for the Butler family who hides Macon and Pilate. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Dr. Foster?

The father of Ruth Foster Dead who secretly despises most black people. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Freddie?

The neighborhood snoop who discovers Ruth nursing four-year-old Milkman. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Heddy?

Sing's mother and Susan's grandmother, she took care of Jake after his father left. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Henry Porter?

A tenant of Macon Dead who gets romantically involved with Corinthians. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Michael-Mary Graham?

A wealthy white spinster and poet who hires Corinthians as her maid. Signup and view all the answers

Who is the nephew?

The 13-year-old nephew of Reverend Cooper who drives Milkman to the Butler house to find Circe. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Reverend Cooper?

A resident of Danville who confirms the story of Jake's losing his farm to the Butlers. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Ryna?

The great-grandmother of Milkman who goes insane when her husband abandons her. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Sing?

The wife of Jake, part Native American, who dies when giving birth to Pilate. Signup and view all the answers

What indication of positive action does Lena show toward Milkman?

She tells Milkman that he's not going to take advantage of her anymore. Signup and view all the answers

How do Guitar, Macon, and Pilate each respond differently to whites in Chapter 9 of Song of Solomon?

Guitar becomes silent and simmers with rage, Macon tries to ingratiate himself, and Pilate transforms into a subservient figure. Signup and view all the answers

What motivates Milkman to go to Danville in Chapter 10, instead of the desire to know about his ancestors?

Morrison uses gold to motivate Milkman. Signup and view all the answers

What does the symbol of flight represent in relation to Milkman in Chapter 10?

It represents Milkman's feeling of invulnerability and freedom from burdens. Signup and view all the answers

What symbolic resonance does the sawmill accident have for Guitar's character?

It reflects the division in Guitar's soul, creating a hatred toward whites and a loving side for his friends. Signup and view all the answers

How does Morrison depict the significance of oral tradition for Milkman in Chapter 10?

It is the means by which Milkman learns about his ancestors and connects with his heritage. Signup and view all the answers

What actions demonstrate the local men's dislike of Milkman in Chapter 11?

They believe Milkman sees himself as superior, highlighted by his car and dismissive attitude. Signup and view all the answers

What are three ways Milkman transitions from passiveness to aggressiveness?

By fighting, joining the hunting expedition, and defending himself from Guitar's attack. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Milkman reflect on his life while watching the hunters carve up the bobcat?

The carving symbolizes his connection to his roots and reflects on how different parts of his life have been utilized and valued. Signup and view all the answers

How does Morrison convey the theme of racism through Milkman's conversation with Susan and Grace?

She highlights concerns about skin color and the impact of racism on self-identity. Signup and view all the answers

How are Milkman's dream and his experience in a plane similar and different?

Both involve feelings of empowerment through flight, but the dream feels more authentic and connected to his ancestry. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Morrison use a children's rhyme to reveal Milkman's true identity?

The rhyme connects to oral tradition, symbols of flight, and names linked to his ancestry. Signup and view all the answers

How does the theme of racism relate to the abandonment of women in Song of Solomon?

Milkman's abandonment of Hagar is influenced by his disconnectedness due to racism. Signup and view all the answers

What makes Guitar sympathetic to Hagar?

Guitar understands abandonment as he has faced similar losses in his life. Signup and view all the answers

What clues suggest Hagar is mentally disturbed while trying to improve her appearance?

Hagar's fierce struggle with a small skirt and her obsessive actions reveal her impaired judgment. Signup and view all the answers

How does Morrison frame the theme of flight throughout the novel?

The beginning and end feature flight, symbolizing characters' struggles and eventual empowerment. Signup and view all the answers

How does oral tradition help and hinder Milkman's quest for identity?

Oral tradition facilitates connections with his heritage but can be incomplete and biased. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Guitar dislike sweets?

Guitar has negative associations with sweets stemming from his father's tragic death linked to a sawmill accident. Signup and view all the answers

Why are movie stars significant in The Bluest Eye?

They represent cultural influences and societal standards of beauty that impact characters' lives. Signup and view all the answers

What is Pilate Dead's role in Milkman's life?

She helps Milkman connect with his ancestral past. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Pilate?

Pilate is the Roman prefect Pontius Pilate, the man who crucified Jesus. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Reba/Rebecca?

Reba/Rebecca is Pilate's daughter, named after the wife of Isaac. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Magdalena called Lena?

Lena is Ruth's oldest daughter named after Mary Magdalene. Signup and view all the answers

What is First Corinthians?

First Corinthians is the name of Ruth and Macon Dead's second daughter. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Morrison open the novel with a man jumping off a building?

It symbolizes the central importance of flight for the main character, Milkman. Signup and view all the answers

What three purposes does Macon secretly listen to Pilate and her family singing?

Macon thinks names represent acceptance, Guitar believes names reflect identity, and they discuss the differences in how black people receive names. Signup and view all the answers

How does Milkman's relationship with Hagar reflect his inner conflict?

It shows his attraction to Hagar is tied to unresolved feelings for Pilate and her family. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Guitar decide not to confide in Milkman about the Seven Days?

He fears Milkman will not appreciate the significance of his involvement. Signup and view all the answers

What purpose does Freddie talk about ghosts serve?

It highlights Milkman's limited worldview and foreshadows the importance of ghosts in his family. Signup and view all the answers

Why does Ruth have difficulty seeing Milkman as an individual?

Ruth's relationship with Milkman is based on her needs rather than his individuality. Signup and view all the answers

What does Pilate's lack of a navel signify?

It signifies her as an outsider with godlike powers and insight into life and death. Signup and view all the answers

How do Pilate's and Ruth's views of death differ?

Ruth views death as natural and passive, while Pilate sees it as an active choice. Signup and view all the answers

What are three ways Guitar deludes himself about the Seven Days?

He thinks all whites are unnatural, believes he kills for love of black people, and thinks he can control his hatred. Signup and view all the answers

Why do Milkman and Guitar have reasons to be scared for each other?

Milkman fears Guitar's potential for violence, and Guitar fears Milkman's aimlessness. Signup and view all the answers

How does the first paragraph of Chapter 7 illuminate the symbol of flight?

It conveys the intense desire to escape problems through the metaphor of landlocked lakes versus dreams of flight. Signup and view all the answers

What does the ghost of Jake highlight?

It highlights the differing values between Pilate and Macon regarding ancestry and material wealth. Signup and view all the answers

How does the white peacock represent white racists?

The white peacock symbolizes racial superiority and purity, similar to racist attitudes. Signup and view all the answers

What mood does Morrison create before the theft?

Morrison creates an exotic, intoxicating mood through sensory details. Signup and view all the answers

How does Corinthians attempt to overcome her depression?

She secretly reaches out to the black community, working as a maid. Signup and view all the answers

How does Morrison create ironic humor in the depiction of the theft?

Situational irony occurs when Milkman and Guitar expect gold but find bones and rocks. Signup and view all the answers

How do Lena and Corinthians handle their oppression differently?

Corinthians reaches out to the community, while Lena focuses inward and becomes bitter. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Character Analysis and Symbolism

Pilate: Named after Pontius Pilate; symbolizes negotiation and conflict with societal norms through her unique identity and godlike insight.
Reba/Rebecca: Pilate's daughter, named after a biblical figure; reflects themes of motherhood and heritage from the Torah.
Magdalena (Lena): Ruth's daughter, named after Mary Magdalene; represents strong female support and resilience.
Corinthians: Reflects the struggle between social identity and belonging within the black community; addresses isolation due to class distinctions.

Themes of Flight and Freedom

Flight Symbolism: Opening scene of a man jumping off a building signifies Milkman’s yearning to escape life’s burdens; introduces life-and-death themes central to the narrative.
Desire for Escape: Milkman’s internal conflict manifests in his inability to fly, mirroring his emotional struggles and societal expectations.

Relationships and Conflicts

Milkman and Hagar: Their relationship illustrates Milkman's inner turmoil, reflecting a superficial connection influenced by his greater admiration for Pilate and her family.
Guitar's Secrets: Guitar’s unwillingness to disclose his involvement with the Seven Days emphasizes their differing attitudes towards commitment and identity.
Mother-Son Dynamics: Ruth's view of Milkman as an extension of her needs rather than as an individual informs their complicated emotional bond and foreshadows conflicts throughout the novel.

Perspectives on Death

Ruth vs. Pilate: Ruth’s passive view on death contrasts with Pilate’s active conception, where she believes individuals can choose their moment to die—highlights differing attitudes towards life’s finality.
Ghosts and Legacy: Conversations regarding ghosts underscore themes of ancestry, legacy, and the unseen influences that affect Milkman’s identity.

Racism and Identity: Guitar’s delusions about white people reflect broader social prejudices and internalized racism; his motivations are entwined with hatred rather than love for his community.
Materialism and Folly: The failed theft of gold instead leading to bones represents the futility of material desires; critiques societal fixation on wealth and superficial success.

Women’s Agency and Oppression

Corinthians' Engagement: Attempts to immerse herself in the black community highlight the struggle between personal identity and societal expectations; her relationship with Porter symbolizes defiance against class aspirations.
Lena’s Bitterness: Lena’s inward focus on grievances towards Milkman exacerbates her oppression, contrasting Corinthians’ outward approach to seeking community.

Irony and Humor

Humor in Theft: The situational irony of Milkman and Guitar finding bones instead of gold serves as comedic relief while critiquing their aspirations for wealth.
Character Dynamics with Whites: The contrasting ways in which Macon, Guitar, and Pilate interact with white characters reveal their inner struggles and reflect the complexities of race, identity, and power dynamics.

Development of Milkman

Gold vs. Ancestry: Milkman's initial quest for gold over ancestral knowledge highlights his character growth; his journey ultimately challenges him to explore a deeper connection with his heritage and identity. ### Milkman's Character Development
Milkman embarks on a journey to Danville in search of gold.
His quest shifts from the pursuit of wealth to a deeper interest in his ancestry.

Symbol of Flight in Chapter 10

Flight represents Milkman's feelings of invulnerability during his airplane ride.
Morrison contrasts flight as an escape for black men with Milkman's temporary euphoria which ultimately reveals itself as illusory.
Milkman is reminded that he must eventually confront his family's burdens upon returning to the ground.

Sawmill Accident and Guitar's Character

Guitar's father is physically cut in half by the sawmill accident, symbolizing a split in Guitar's own identity.
This event ignites a profound hatred in Guitar towards white people, complicating his loving nature towards friends.
Guitar's internal conflict is evident as he oscillates between vengeance and affection.

Significance of Oral Tradition in Chapter 10

Oral story-sharing allows Milkman to learn about his ancestors, including his grandfather Jake.
Milkman gains a sense of pride and connection to his heritage through these narratives.
The living tradition serves as a link to his family’s legacy, keeping Jake's spirit alive.

Local Men's Dislike of Milkman in Chapter 11

Milkman's perceived superiority fuels resentment among the local men.
His ostentatious behavior, like flaunting wealth and failing to engage with the men, alienates him.
Physical attire and mannerisms remind locals of their economic disadvantages.

Milkman's Transition to Aggressiveness in Chapter 11

Engaging in a physical fight marks a shift from passive to aggressive behavior.
Participating in a hunting expedition reflects his growing assertiveness despite risks.
An instinctual response helps him defend against Guitar’s lethal intentions.

Reflection During Bobcat Carving in Chapter 11

The hunters dissecting the bobcat parallels Milkman's introspection regarding his life.
The act symbolizes Milkman examining how aspects of his existence have been exploited.
He identifies with the bobcat, illustrating the predatory nature of society and its impact on his life.

Theme of Racism and Abandonment in Chapter 12

Milkman's rejection of Hagar is intertwined with systemic racism affecting his identity.
Hagar's insecurities stem from societal standards of beauty linked to race, contributing to her despair.
Milkman's neglect reflects a broader pattern of disconnect due to societal pressures.

Guitar's Sympathy for Hagar

Despite his violent tendencies, Guitar shows understanding and empathy towards Hagar's plight.
His abandonment experiences shape his sympathetic viewpoint, drawing a parallel with biblical tales of Hagar.
Guitar's complexity illustrates the multifaceted emotional experiences within the African American community.

Hagar's Mental Disturbance Indicators

Hagar's compulsiveness when trying on clothes indicates a blurred perception of reality.
Her insistence on continuing her shopping in the rain demonstrates impaired judgment driven by obsession.
The chaotic application of makeup further reflects her deteriorating mental state.

Flight as a Framing Device

Mr. Smith's ill-fated flight attempts at the novel's start symbolize despair and detachment.
Milkman’s flight at the end signifies growth, empowerment, and connection to his heritage.
The contrast emphasizes a journey from desolation to a celebration of identity and strength.

Oral Tradition's Role in Milkman's Identity Search

Oral traditions serve as crucial tools for Milkman’s journey to self-discovery, enriching his understanding of family.
Personal interactions foster connections that help Milkman grasp the essence of his lineage.
However, the incomplete nature of oral stories presents challenges, requiring discernment and critical thinking from Milkman.

Guitar's Hatred of Sweets

Guitar’s aversion to sweets is tied to his childhood trauma after his father's death.
White sawmill owner's act of giving candy to mourning children intensifies Guitar's resentment toward racism.

Influence of Movie Stars in "The Bluest Eye"

Movies were a dominant cultural force during the 1930s and 1940s, shaping societal perceptions.
Lack of representation propelled white ideals, limiting the visibility of black performers to stereotypical roles.
Claudia's preference for Jane Withers over Shirley Temple highlights the internalized conflicts regarding race and identity.

Key Characters

Pilate Dead: Milkman's aunt who facilitates his connection with ancestors.
Macon Dead, Jr.: A wealthy businessman whose greed affects personal relationships.
Guitar: Milkman’s best friend whose hatred drives him toward destructive choices.
Macon Dead I: Milkman’s grandfather who faced betrayal after building a successful farm.
Circe: Maid who plays a crucial role in hiding figures from Milkman's family history.
Dr. Foster: Secretly harbors disdain for most black individuals.
Freddie: The neighborhood watchful figure who uncovers Milkman's early years.
Heddy: Maternal figure for Jake, nurturing him post abandonment.
Henry Porter: Involved romantically with Corinthians while being a tenant of Macon Dead.
Michael-Mary Graham: White poet who employs Corinthians as a servant.
Nephew: Young driver aiding Milkman in his quest in Danville.
Reverend Cooper: Danville resident who validates Milkman’s family's history.
Ryna: Influenced by her husband’s abandonment, leading to her madness.
Sing: Part Native American, her death during childbirth signifies deep family loss.

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Explore key vocabulary from Toni Morrison's 'The Bluest Eye' and 'Song of Solomon' with these flashcards. Each card provides definitions and contextual meanings of important terms and characters. Perfect for enhancing your understanding of Morrison's literary themes and characters.