History Lesson by Natasha Trethewey

8D The poem reflects history by using imagery that contrasts life in Mississippi before and after —

• A hurricane

• the Great Depression

• desegregation

• summer

4F In lines 7 and 8, the poet uses a simile that has the ironic effect of making the minnows seem —

• curious

• threatening

• beautiful

• humorous

4F Which of these best states the poem’s theme?

• Although children may disagree with their elders, family bonds remain strong.

• Sentiment is a waste of time and energy.

• Progress can be judged only by an impartial observer.

• Even in the midst of historic change, some things remain constant.

4F

• nostalgic

• strident

• apologetic

• reverent

5C

• the speaker’s lack of empathy for her grandmother’s situation

• the grandmother’s restricted opportunities

• the grandmother’s limited perspective

• the speaker’s refusal to be bound to the past

5C

• African Americans

• the general public

• her extended family

• young women