Plot & Setting
Where does the story “Berry” take place?
At Dr. Renfield’s summer home for disabled children, located on the New Jersey coast.
Who is the main character in the story?
Millberry Jones (called Berry).
Name one major theme in “Berry.”
Racism and inequality.
What is the tone of the story?
Serious, sympathetic, and critical of injustice.
Why was Berry hired to work at the summer home?
He was hired at the last minute to replace a kitchen worker who quit suddenly.
How is Berry different from the other workers at the camp?
He is Black, works harder, and is treated unfairly compared to the white workers.
How does the story explore racism and inequality?
Berry is overworked, underpaid, and discriminated against because of his race.
What type of narration is used in “Berry”?
Third-person omniscient narration.
What job was Berry expected to do at Dr. Renfield’s summer home?
He was supposed to work in the kitchen, but he ended up doing many other tasks and chores.
What do Dr. and Mrs. Renfield represent in the story?
They represent white privilege and the hypocrisy of people who appear kind but practice discrimination.
What message does Hughes send about work and fairness?
Hard work does not always lead to fair treatment, especially in an unjust society.
Give an example of imagery used in the story.
Descriptions of the sea, the heat, or the children’s disabilities create vivid mental images.
Describe one major event that happens while Berry works at the camp.
A child has an accident while Berry is carrying him, which leads to Berry being blamed unfairly.
How does Berry respond to the discrimination he faces?
He remains polite, works diligently, and shows quiet dignity despite the mistreatment.
How does Berry’s experience reflect the struggles of African Americans during that time period?
It mirrors how Black workers were often exploited, undervalued, and denied equal opportunities.
Why do you think Langston Hughes chose to end the story the way he did? What effect does it have on readers?
The ending forces readers to confront the harsh reality of racism and inequality without comfort or resolution.
How does the story end, and what is the significance of the ending?
Berry is fired and paid less than promised. The ending shows the injustice and racism he faces despite his hard work.
Explain how Berry’s character shows strength or dignity despite unfair treatment.
He accepts his work humbly, treats others kindly, and never retaliates, showing moral strength and self-respect.
How does Hughes use the story to critique society’s treatment of Black workers?
By showing Berry’s mistreatment despite his good character, Hughes exposes systemic racism and hypocrisy.
Identify and explain one literary device used in the story.
Symbolism – Berry symbolizes the exploited Black worker; Irony – the “home” is supposed to care for others, yet it mistreats him.