Reality and Cynicism in Poetry

Question 1

Which words establish the cynical tone? grins, hearts, smile✔ lies, debt, bleedingwear, pay, myriad

Revolt · Accepted Answer

B: lies, debt, bleeding

Question 2

What social issue does the mask represent?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

B: racism

Question 3

Question 3

Revolt · Accepted Answer

In "The Nymph’s Reply to the Shepherd," Sir Walter Raleigh uses realistic imagery to create a cynical tone that counters the idealism of Christopher Marlowe’s poem. Raleigh focuses on the inevitable passing of time and the decay of nature, using images such as fading flowers, fields yielding to harvest, and the onset of a "wayward winter." By illustrating how the shepherd’s gifts will rot or be forgotten, Raleigh expresses the cynical belief that the shepherd's promises are unrealistic and based on a youth and beauty that cannot last.

Question 4

How does the last stanza reinforce the speaker's cynicism? Check the three boxes that apply.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

B: The final exclamation point adds emphasis to the repeated message.; C: The speaker reveals that the world doesn't listen to his pleas.; D: The repetition of "We wear the mask" suggests that nothing will change.

Question 5

How does the imagery in the first stanza reveal elements of naturalism?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

C: The mask imagery reflects a conflict related to social environment.

Question 6

Naturalism includes the idea that society helps form an individual. How does the mask in Dunbar's poem support that belief?

Revolt · Accepted Answer

A: The mask suggests that society forces African Americans to hide their pain.

Question 7

Which of the following interpretations did you include in your answer? Check all of the boxes that apply.

Revolt · Accepted Answer

A: concern for their own safety

Reality and Cynicism in Poetry Answers

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