Topics for Further Study
Last Updated September 3, 2024.
- Some critics have compared Hanby's perspectives in the "Kabnis" section of Cane to those of Booker T. Washington, a notable African-American educator in the early twentieth century. Investigate Washington's viewpoints and share your thoughts on his approach to the social status of blacks.
- Many of Toomer's stories explore the distinctions between dark-skinned and light-skinned African Americans, despite the tendency to group all black people together. Create a collage featuring black faces of various shades to highlight this diversity.
- The old man in Halsey's store basement speaks only a few words. Write a monologue for him, detailing his history and his views on his life.
- An underlying theme in the book's first section is the violence that threatens blacks who assert their rights. Research modern hate groups and their methods, including how they use the Internet to disseminate their intimidating messages.
- In the Washington and Chicago sections of Cane, characters would have enjoyed jazz music in the 1920s. However, what kind of music would they have listened to in rural Georgia? Find examples of this music and play them for your class.
- One reason Jean Toomer never wrote another novel is that he dedicated much of his energy to the Institute for the Harmonious Development of Man, promoting Georges Gurdjieff's ideas. Provide a report on Gurdjieff's teachings.
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