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This test consists of 5 short answer questions and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Who's the last character to speak in Act II?

2. When Brother Boxer says, "But he got trumpets or some kind of horn in his blood," who is he referring to?

3. What scares David about being a musician?

4. Where is Bishop Williams' church located?

5. What music is playing in Luke's bedroom?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Symbolism is used during "The Amen Corner." Baldwin makes a point of saying that Ida Jackson is "not dressed in white" in Act I and that Sisters Moore and Boxer are dressed in white in the final act. Discuss the use of and meaning of the color white.

Essay Topic 2

The new refrigerator is mentioned throughout the play. In particular, Brother Boxer focuses on it, starting with "This ain't no icebox, this is a Frigidaire." What does the refrigerator symbolize?

Essay Topic 3

In the Notes Section, author James Baldwin indicates a personal knowledge of what his characters go through when he states that "I know what Sister Margaret goes through, and what her male child is menaced by." In his life, Baldwin didn't know his biological father, but was raised in Harlem by a stepfather who was reported to be a stern pastor. In knowing that "The Amen Corner" came from his personal experience, what do you think Baldwin was trying to say about religion? Cite examples to support your opinion.

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