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1
What is Juneteenth?
The title of this novel takes its name from an American holiday that celebrates the emancipation of African-Americans from slavery. Celebrated on the 19th of June, this holiday was first commemorated in Texas, where slaves were finally freed after Lincoln's emancipation act.
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2
How does Ellison use darkness and light in this text?
The contrast between darkness and light is a key motif in this text and is referred to frequently. In this text, Ellison uses these terms in relation to race, specifically using it in relation to the character bliss. On the one hand, Bliss represents hope and light as a preacher; however, he also represents darkness with his name "Sunraider," which essentially means the absence of light.
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3
What happened to Hickman's brother?
Hickman reveals that Bliss' mother, who is unnamed in the text, accused his brother of raping her, resulting in his brother's death. Significantly, his brother was killed by a racist lynch mob, revealing the horrific racism inherent in the community.
Juneteenth Essay Questions
by Ralph Ellison
Essay Questions
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