Scenes from American Literature Quiz

"Moby-Dick" was written by Herman Melville and published in 1851. It tells the story of Captain Ahab's obsessive quest to kill Moby Dick, a massive white whale. It explores themes such as revenge, fate, and the struggle between man and nature, set against the backdrop of the American whaling industry in the 19th century.

In this climactic scene, Ahab watches as Moby Dick attacks the Pequod, repeatedly ramming the ship until it begins to sink. The crew is thrown into chaos as the whale's immense power overwhelms them. Ahab remains fixated on the whale even as his ship is destroyed.

"The Great Gatsby" was written by F. Scott Fitzgerald and published in 1925. It is set in the Roaring Twenties and explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream. It tells the story of Jay Gatsby, a mysterious millionaire, through the eyes of his neighbor, Nick Carraway. The novel is known for its vivid depiction of the Jazz Age and its critique of the American upper class.

In this scene, Nick attends one of Gatsby's lavish parties and strikes up a conversation with a man he doesn't recognize. They talk about their mutual experiences in World War I and the lavish parties Gatsby throws. It is only later in the conversation that Nick realizes he is speaking to Gatsby himself.

"The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" was written by Washington Irving and published in 1820. It tells the tale of Ichabod Crane, a superstitious schoolteacher, and his encounter with the legendary Headless Horseman. The story is one of the earliest examples of American fiction and is noted for its blend of humor, horror, and folklore, capturing the spirit of early American storytelling.

In this suspenseful scene, Ichabod Crane rides through the dark woods on his horse, terrified as the Headless Horseman pursues him. The Horseman gains on him, and Ichabod desperately urges his horse to go faster. As they reach a bridge, Ichabod looks back in horror as the Horseman hurls his head at him.

"The Scarlet Letter" was written by Nathaniel Hawthorne and published in 1850. Set in the Puritan Massachusetts Bay Colony during the 17th century, the novel explores themes of sin, guilt, and redemption. It tells the story of Hester Prynne, who is publicly shamed for committing adultery and must wear a scarlet letter "A" on her chest as a symbol of her sin. Hawthorne's novel examines the complexities of moral and social judgment in American society.

In one of the novel's most dramatic scenes shown here, Hester Prynne stands on a scaffold, holding her infant daughter, Pearl. The townspeople gather around, staring and whispering, as Hester bears the public humiliation of her punishment. In the crowd, she spots someone that looks like her lost husband.

"The Jungle" was written by Upton Sinclair and published in 1906. It exposed the harsh conditions and exploited lives of immigrants in the United States, focusing particularly on the meatpacking industry in Chicago. The novel's graphic depictions of unsanitary practices and worker abuse led to public outcry and ultimately contributed to significant reforms in food safety laws, making it a critical work in the history of American social reform.

In this shocking scene, Sinclair describes the meatpacking plants where rats crawl over the meat and workers carelessly sweep the rodents into the grinding machines. The contaminated meat is then processed and packaged for sale. This vivid portrayal of filth and negligence highlighted the appalling conditions within the industry.

"The Gift of the Magi" was written by O. Henry and published in 1905. It tells the tale of a young, impoverished couple, Della and Jim, who sacrifice their most prized possessions to buy Christmas gifts for each other. The story is celebrated for its exploration of love, sacrifice, and irony, as well as the true meaning of giving.

In this scene, Della and Jim exchange their gifts. Della, having sold her long, beautiful hair to buy a fob chain for Jim's watch, is shocked when she receives a set of combs for her hair from Jim. Jim, in turn, is surprised to learn that Della sold her hair to buy him the chain, as he sold his watch to buy her the combs.

"The Sun Also Rises" was written by Ernest Hemingway and published in 1926. The novel captures the disillusionment and aimlessness of the post-World War I generation, often referred to as the "Lost Generation." Set primarily in Paris and Spain, it follows a group of expatriates as they navigate love, friendship, and the pursuit of meaning in a changing world.

In this scene, Jake Barnes watches the running of the bulls from his balcony. He sees the crowds of people and the powerful bulls charging through the narrow streets of Pamplona. The excitement and danger of the event unfold before him, highlighting the novel's themes of passion and existential struggle.

"White Fang" was written by Jack London and published in 1906. The novel tells the story of a wild wolf-dog's journey from the harsh wilderness to domestication, exploring themes of survival, nature versus nurture, and the human-animal bond. Set in the Yukon Territory during the Klondike Gold Rush, "White Fang" is celebrated for its depiction of the natural world and its deep empathy for animals.

In this scene, Wheedon Scott takes care of White Fang, who is injured and wary of humans. Scott gently tends to White Fang's wounds and provides him with food and water. Over time, White Fang begins to trust Scott, marking the start of a deep bond between them.

"The Red Badge of Courage" written by Stephen Crane and published in 1895. Set during the American Civil War, it tells the story of Henry Fleming, a young soldier who grapples with fear, courage, and self-discovery on the battlefield. The novel is notable for its realistic portrayal of war and the psychological challenges faced by soldiers.

In this scene, Henry Fleming sees the Union regimental flag fall and quickly takes it up himself. He waves the flag high, rallying his fellow soldiers to continue fighting. This act of bravery inspires his comrades and helps turn the tide of the battle.

"The Cask of Amontillado" was written by Edgar Allan Poe and published in 1846. It is a tale of revenge and murder, set in an unnamed Italian city during a carnival. Poe's story is renowned for its dark atmosphere, psychological depth, and its mastery in Gothic fiction and horror.

In this tense scene, Montresor begins to seal Fortunato behind a brick wall in the catacombs. He carefully lays each brick, trapping Fortunato in a niche while the latter pleads and screams. Montresor completes the wall, leaving Fortunato entombed alive as part of his sinister plan for revenge.

"The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn" was written by Mark Twain and published in 1884. The novel is set in the pre-Civil War South and follows the journey of a young boy, Huckleberry Finn, and an escaped slave, Jim, as they travel down the Mississippi River. It addresses themes of racism, freedom, and friendship, and is celebrated for its vivid depiction of American society and its critique of institutionalized racism.

In this recognizable scene, Huckleberry Finn and Jim drift down the Mississippi River on a timber raft. They enjoy the tranquility of the river and the freedom it brings, away from the constraints of society. As they navigate the waters, they share stories, form a deep bond, and face various adventures and challenges together.

"The Secret Garden" was written by Frances Hodgson Burnett and published in 1911. It tells the story of Mary Lennox, a lonely and spoiled girl who discovers a hidden, neglected garden on her uncle's estate in England. The novel explores themes of rejuvenation, healing, and the transformative power of nature, and it has remained a cherished classic for its uplifting narrative and rich character development.

In this scene, Mary brings Colin to the secret garden in a wheelchair. Colin, who has been confined indoors due to his frail health, experiences the beauty of the garden for the first time. The fresh air and vibrant surroundings begin to work their magic on him, marking the start of his physical and emotional recovery.