Definitions
Another word for explicit
Direct
Where does Travis sleep?
On a couch in the living room.
What secret is revealed about Ruth?
Ruth is pregnant.
Come up with a specific example from the text that shows that Walter is selfish.
The scene where he leaves Ruth after finding out she wants an abortion.
Come up with a specific example from the text that shows that Asagai wants a relationship with Beneatha.
Another word for implicit
Indirect
What does Ruth refuse to give Travis?
50 cents for books
Walter believes that ________ is life.
Money
Come up with a specific example from the text that shows that Beneatha is ambitious.
The scene where she tells Mama and Ruth that she may not ever get married because she is more concerned with her career than marriage.
Come up with a specific example from the text that shows that Mama is selfless.
Mama is using the money to buy a house for the whole family to live in.
When an author directly describes a character’s traits, personality, thoughts, and actions.
Direct Characterization
Why does Mama slap Beneatha?
Beneatha says that she does not believe in God.
What two gifts does Asagai give to Beneatha?
Robes from Africa and records
Come up with a specific example from the text that shows that Mama is devout (or religious).
The scene where she slaps Beneatha after she reveals that she is an atheist (does not believe in God).
Come up with a specific example from the text that proves or disproves this inference: Ruth is not satisfied with her life.
Proves: Ruth's narration at the beginning of the book explicitly states that she is "disappointed with her life."
Disproves: Ruth is privileged--for the most part--to have a family, a home, and a job.
When an author does not directly describe a character’s traits, personality, thoughts, and actions; the reader has to determine who the character is.
Indirect Characterization
Why does Beneatha refuse to marry George?
George is shallow.
What is Ruth’s plan for the baby?
Ruth plans to abort the baby.
Come up with a specific example from the text that shows that Ruth and Walter have a troubled relationship.
The scene where Ruth states that Walter makes her "sick to her stomach," and he responds, "You turn mine, too."
Come up with a specific example from the text that proves or disproves this inference: Walter wants Ruth to have an abortion.
Proves: Walter walks out on Ruth when given the opportunity to talk her out of the abortion.
Disproves: When Mama tells Walter that Ruth is considering an abortion, he shows his disapproval by saying, "Ruth wouldn't do that."
Assimilation
Changing oneself to fit in with a new group or culture.
What tragedy did Mama and Big Walter experience before he passed away?
Mama and Big Walter's baby passes away.
Why does Mama call Walter a “disgrace to his father’s memory”?
Mama calls Walter a disgrace because he does not talk Ruth out of having the abortion, and instead, he leaves.
Come up with a specific example from the text that proves or disproves that Walter would be a responsible business owner.
Proves: Walter presents Mama with the legal documents to invest in the liquor store.
Disproves: Walter unreasonably gives an extra 50 cents to Travis without realizing that he needs it for his carfare.
Come up with a specific example from the text that proves or disproves this inference: Mama will give the money to Walter.
Proves: Mama begs Walter to talk Ruth out of the abortion, which indicates that she will help support the new baby.
Disproves: Mama has already made up her mind to set aside the money for the house and Beneatha's tuition.