Quiz on African Literature

Which of the following best describes early African literature?

• Written only in Arabic

• Largely oral, passed through storytelling and song

• Composed exclusively in European languages

• Strictly religious texts

Which technique is typical of African storytellers?

• Silent reading

• Call-and-response

• Solo monologue

• Dramatic acting only

What are griots known for?

• Writing novels

• Performing oral histories and praise songs

• Painting portraits

• Teaching in universities

Which of these is NOT a form of traditional African poetry?

• Epic

• Occupational verse

• Haiku

• Praise poems

In David Diop’s poem “Africa,” the phrase “Africa, my Africa” is an example of:

• Simile

• Apostrophe

• Metaphor

• Personification

The line “This back that never breaks under the weight of humiliation” refers to Africa’s:

• Physical strength

• Endurance and resilience

• Economic power

• Artistic talent

In “Africa,” “bitter taste of liberty” most likely symbolizes:

• Freedom’s challenges and sacrifices

• The sweetness of independence

• The taste of traditional food

• A reference to a bitter fruit

Which of the following is a major theme in the poem “Africa”?

• Colonial domination

• Cultural heritage and rebirth

• Religious devotion

• Technological progress

African folktales primarily serve to:

• Entertain only

• Reinforce social norms and teach morals

• Promote political agendas

• Translate ancient texts

Myths in African oral tradition typically explain:

• Political systems

• The origin of the world and natural phenomena

• Modern inventions

• Sports achievements