Invisible Man

Lesson 20
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ELA

Unit 1

12th Grade

Lesson 20 of 36

Objective


Explain how the author uses symbolism and imagery to reveal character and theme in this chapter.

Readings and Materials


  • Book: Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison  pp. 318 – 332

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Target Task


Multiple Choice

From Chapter 13 to Chapter 15 the narrator’s attitude towards his Southern heritage shifts from

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Writing Prompt

How does the author use the imagery and/or symbolism to develop the characterization of the narrator in this chapter? You may choose to use the motif of heat and cold, the bank, the briefcase, or another example of your choosing.

How do these symbols and/or the characterization of the narrator help develop the theme of identity? Specifically, what is the author communicating about the impact of isolation and loneliness on an individual’s identity?

Key Questions


  • p. 319: Why is the narrator so enraged by Mary's bank? What does his reaction possibly reveal about him?
  • How does Mary react to the money? How does Mary treat the narrator? What does her treatment of him reveal about her?
  • p. 327: Where did the narrator get his briefcase? Recall the dream he had about the contents of the briefcase. What does the narrator's briefcase represent? Why is it significant that he takes it out and puts the smashed bank inside?
  • If time, refer back to the line on p. 33, "To Whom it May Concern....Keep This N-Boy Running." Given what we know now, what is the significance of this line in the dream? To what degree did Bledsoe do just that with his letter? Who is "keeping him running" right now. How do you know?
  • How are the briefcase and the dream related to the motif of blindness? What then, does the appearance of the briefcase here suggest to the reader about the narrator's ability to "see" at the moment?
  • Why is he eager to get rid of the bank? Is he able to? What does this signify?
  • What does the woman with the pince-nez call him on p. 328? Look back to what he calls the others in his building on p. 320. Significance?
  • p. 330: What is the irony of the man insulting him as a "young New York Negro"? What is the author's message?
  • What is the author saying about the narrator's identity in this chapter? How does this reveal theme?

Notes


  • Students should continue to trace imagery of cold/ice and heat, investigating what the author is communicating through this motif.
  • Pp. 325-332 can be read for homework if necessary.
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Lesson 19

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Lesson 21

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