What can you say about “The Ancestor”?
He is the “father” of the main characters, who describes himself as an old man forced to sell his children into slavery because of famine.
Who is the author of the novel "Crossing the River"?
The author of the novel is Caryl Phillips.
What tragedy unites Nash, Martha, and Travis?
They all struggle with the separation from their native Africa.
In what year was the book "Crossing the River" published?
The book was published in 1993.
What is the main goal in the lives of Nash and Edward?
Nash seeks to find his true self and understand where he belongs, while Edward wants to prove that his mission and faith are successful, and that his work with Nash was not in vain.
Which country represents the main theme in the story?
Africa.
What was Martha's goal when she escaped slavery?
She was searching for her daughter.
How does Travis's story show the impact of war on personal emotions and interracial relations?
Travis faces racism in the army
Who is James Hamilton?
James Hamilton is the captain of a ship involved in the slave trade. He appears in the section of the novel titled "The Journal of James Hamilton".
What does the title of the novel symbolize?
The title symbolizes the journey of the characters who are crossing a metaphorical river, facing the challenges
Who was a missionary trying to "bring civilization" to Africa?
Nash.
What does the title of the novel symbolize?
The title serves as a metaphor for both death and liberation.
Briefly describe the three children of Africa
Nash, who travels from America to Africa to convert the locals to Christianity;
Martha, an elderly woman trying to escape the injustices of slavery and reunite with her daughter;
Travis, a U.S. serviceman stationed in England during World War II.
What does the ending of the story symbolize?
The ending symbolizes a sense of closure and reflection
What prizes has the novel won? (at least one)
The James Tait Black Memorial Prize for Fiction, and the Lannan Literary Award.
Which war is the background for Travis's story?
World War II.
What symbolic meaning does the river have in the story?
The river symbolizes division and transition between cultures, identity, and time. It also can symbolize the hardships that Africans and their descendants face throughout their lives.
In which country does most of Nash's story take place?
Liberia.
What role do letters and notes play in the novel?
Letters and notes are crucial in revealing the inner thoughts and emotions of the characters
What is the irony of freedom and slavery?
Although Nash, Martha, and Travis are formally "free," in reality, they are restricted in many aspects of their lives.
Where was Martha born?
Martha was born in America.
Which two female characters reveal the feminist aspect of the novel?
Martha and Joyce.
How many main parts is the novel divided into?
3
What does freedom mean to Nash?
For Nash, freedom means understanding his identity, finding where he truly belongs, and reconciling his past with his present.
How did you like the game?
Any opinion is correct, thank you for your feedback!