SAMPLE CORRECT ANSWERS TO
TAKE-HOME QUIZ ON DE CREVECOEUR
- In De Crevecoeur's Letters
from an American Farmer, James anthropomorphizes a number of
insects and non-human animals. Give two examples, and explain James's
point in attributing human characteristics to these critters. What
lesson(s) are we supposed to take?
James recounts an instance of "selfishness displayed in a very
small bird" (62). The bird drove a swallow from its home. James
describes the swallow as "peaceable . . . like the passive Quaker"
(62). After peacefully allowing his home to be taken, the swallow
rebuilt its own home and repaired all wrongs. In recounting this story,
James affirms the values of industry and peacefulness, and condemns
selfishness, describing as even contrary to reason. James also writes
of a "republic of industrious hornets" in his parlor. James uses a
gluey substance that the hornets produce to catch flies, and it also
pleased him that the hornets themselves catch flies. He writes that
"though they are fierce and vindictive . . . kindness and hospitality
has made them useful and harmless" (64). In this example, James shows
the importance and redemptive qualities of industry and service.
- How does James feel about
paying taxes? Why? James feels that the amount of
taxes he has to pay is both just and small. He writes, "I owe nothing
bu ta peppercorn to my country, a small tribute to my king, with
loyalty and due respect; I know no other landlord than the lord of all
land, to whom I owe the most sincere gratitude" (52).
- What does the "History of
Andrew, the Hebridean" serve to
illustrate? "The History of Andrew, the Hebridean"
serves to illustrate the way that even poor immigrants can become
wealthy in America if they work diligently and honestly on the land.
- In what manner does James
characterize the slaves
emancipated by the Quakers? After describing how
well he believes slaves to be treated in the North, James characterizes
the slaves emancipated by the Quakers as regretful of leaving their
position of servitude. He writes that many "have never quitted, though
free, their former masters and benefactors" (171). He presents the
slaves as content in slavery.
- How does James feel about
Britian during the Revolutionary
War? James is torn regarding his feelings toward
Great Britain. On one hand, he does not want to "denounce that name,
that nation, which [he] held once so respectable" (204). However, he
also shudders at the idea of arming himself against "the country where
[he] first drew breath, against the playmates of [his] youth, [his]
bosom friends, [his] acquaintance" (205).
The answers above were submitted by Lori Foley.
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