We are reading the book In the Heat of the Night by John Ball and I need to complete the chapter 2 comprehension questions. I am stuck on this one:
1. Investigate the figurative nuances of the name Virgil. It is an allusion. Why is it significant? Think in terms of irony and character development.
Please help quick!!
Would it help you if John Ball had a character named Homer? Who was the great Virgil of literature? Doesn't Virgil appears as Dante's guide through hell and purgatory? What does Hell and purgatory have to do with Heat of the Night? OHhhh. The setting was deep Mississippi, not exactly Heaven for a black Virgil.
Be careful what you name your children.
To investigate the figurative nuances of the name Virgil in the book "In the Heat of the Night" by John Ball, you can follow a few steps:
1. Understand the meaning or historical context of the name: Virgil is derived from the Latin name "Vergilius" or "Vergil," which is associated with the ancient Roman poet Publius Vergilius Maro, commonly known as Virgil. He was considered one of the greatest poets in Western literature, known for his epic, "The Aeneid."
2. Identify the use of the name in the book: In the context of the story, Virgil refers to Virgil Tibbs, the main character who is an African American detective from Pasadena, California. He is brought in to assist with a murder investigation in Wells, a racially tense town in the Deep South.
3. Analyze the irony: The irony lies in the choice of the name Virgil for the African American detective. It is ironic because the name Virgil carries a connotation of strength, intelligence, and poetic artistry, which challenges the racial stereotype that African Americans were often subjected to during that time period.
4. Consider character development: The use of the name Virgil helps to develop the character of the African American detective. By associating him with the literary figure Virgil, the author highlights his intelligence, resourcefulness, and cultural depth, positioning him as a complex and multi-dimensional character. This adds depth and complexity to the story, subverting racial stereotypes and showcasing the potential for greatness in individuals, regardless of their racial background.
In summary, investigating the figurative nuances of the name Virgil in "In the Heat of the Night" by John Ball reveals irony in the choice of the name for the African American detective, challenging racial stereotypes. It also contributes to the character development, showcasing the complexity and potential of the main character.