Symbolism and Themes in Poetry

The video features a teacher reading and discussing poems. The first poem is about a historical event in the Dominican Republic where Haitian workers were executed based on their pronunciation of the word 'parsley.' The poem explores themes of identity and power. The teacher then shares a personal story about a cousin's influence during a summer. Finally, a poem in progress about sewing and meditation is introduced, reflecting on American foreign policy.

What is the historical context of the poem introduced at the beginning?

• A future prediction about the Dominican Republic

• A modern-day event in Haiti

• A historical event in the Dominican Republic in 1957

• A fictional event in the Dominican Republic

How did the dictator distinguish Haitians from Dominicans?

• By their skin color

• By their pronunciation of the letter 'R'

• By their work ethic

• By their clothing

What is the structure of the poem 'Museum'?

• Three separate sections

• Two parts, each with a title

• A single stanza

• One long continuous part

What imagery is used in the first part of the poem, 'The Cane Field'?

• A snowy mountain

• A parrot imitating spring

• A serene beach

• A bustling city

What does the general think about in 'The Palace'?

• His future plans

• His mother and the fall

• His childhood

• His favorite book

What significance does parsley hold for the general?

• It is a symbol of power

• It reminds him of his childhood

• It is his favorite herb

• It is the word used to distinguish Haitians

What does the parrot symbolize in the poem?

• Freedom

• Imitation and mimicry

• Love

• Wisdom

What does the general recall about his time in battle?

• The smell of flowers

• The taste of victory

• The sound of artillery

• The beauty of the landscape

What emotional response does the general have towards the end of the poem?

• Indifference

• Joy

• Anger

• A tearful remembrance

What inspired the new poem introduced after 'Museum'?

• A book

• A dream

• A cousin's visit

• A historical event