Curated set · answers marked
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?
AJack
BGus
CBigger Thomas ✓✓
DJan Erlone 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.
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?
ABessie Mears
BMary Dalton
CClara Mears
DHannah Thomas Correct Answer: B) Mary Dalton
Rationale
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.
Who is the main character in Richard Wright's Native Son?
AJake Jackson
BBigger Thomas✓
CCross Damon
DRoy Moss