Salvation by Langston Hughes

These flashcards cover key concepts, themes, and plot details from Langston Hughes' 'Salvation,' aiding in understanding and exam preparation.

Who wrote 'Salvation'?

Langston Hughes.

What type of text is 'Salvation'?

It is an autobiographical memoir.

What is the basic plot of 'Salvation'?

Young Langston attends a church revival, waits to feel Jesus, but under pressure, he lies about being saved.

What does Langston's aunt say salvation feels like?

You see a light and feel Jesus in your soul.

Why does Langston wait calmly at first?

He trusts adults and believes Jesus will literally appear.

What role does Westley play in the story?

Westley lies to escape pressure, showing that salvation can be socially performed.

Why does Langston decide to lie at the revival?

He feels ashamed for holding up the church and wants the pressure to stop.

Why is the title 'Salvation' considered ironic?

Langston is not spiritually saved; he loses his faith instead.

What is the climax of the story?

When Langston stands up and claims he has been saved.

What is the emotional turning point at the end of the story?

Langston cries in bed because he feels guilty for lying.

What theme about religion does the story explore?

Religious pressure can cause conformity; public faith may not match private belief.

What theme about childhood does the story explore?

Loss of innocence and the first experience of doubt.

What literary device is most important in 'Salvation'?

Irony, as the title suggests salvation but results in loss of faith.

What is the tone at the beginning of the story?

Hopeful, innocent, and trusting.

What is the tone at the end of the story?

Disappointed, disillusioned, and emotionally wounded.

What does the revival setting symbolize?

Collective emotional pressure and overwhelming community expectations.

What does Langston's crying represent?

Guilt from lying and the loss of belief.

What internal conflict does Langston face?

He struggles between wanting to believe and the pressure of social acceptance.

What does the story suggest about group psychology?

Individuals may conform under pressure and emotions can spread in crowds.

Why is 'Salvation' important in American literature?

It offers a critical view of religious experience and a young boy’s psychological awakening.