Native Son

In Richard Wright's *Native Son*, what is the name of the protagonist whose accidental killing of Mary Dalton triggers the central conflict of the novel? - A) Jack - B) Gus - C) Bigger Thomas ✓ - D) Jan Erlone **Correct Answer: C) Bigger Thomas** *Bigger Thomas is a twenty-year-old Black man living on Chicago's South Side. His fear and desperation result in the accidental smothering of Mary Dalton, the daughter of his affluent white employer.*

ap_lit · ap_lang · common_core

**Question:** In Richard Wright's *Native Son*, what is the name of the white woman whom Bigger Thomas accidentally kills, setting the central events of the novel in motion? A) Bessie Mears B) Mary Dalton C) Clara Mears D) Hannah Thomas **Correct Answer:** B) Mary Dalton **Explanation:** Bigger Thomas accidentally smothers Mary Dalton, the daughter of his wealthy employer, while trying to keep her from being seen by her blind mother. This unintended act of violence triggers the unfolding events of the novel, leading to Bigger's flight, capture, trial, and eventual execution.

ap_lit · ap_lang · common_core_ela · ib_english

**Quiz Question — *Native Son* by Richard Wright** Who is the main character in Richard Wright's *Native Son*? - A) Jake Jackson - B) Bigger Thomas - C) Cross Damon - D) Roy Moss **Correct Answer: B) Bigger Thomas**

ap_lit · common_core · ib_lang_lit