Question 1: Briefly explain the historical and cultural context of 'Checking Out Me History'. Why does Agard feel the need to challenge traditional historical narratives?

Answer: Agard highlights how marginalized histories and figures are often omitted from mainstream education, emphasizing the importance of personal and cultural identity, especially for Caribbean heritage students.

Question 1: Analyze the significance of the line 'Dem tell me about 1066 and all that' in relation to historical power and cultural identity.

Answer: It critiques how traditional history emphasizes certain events that may overlook or marginalize other cultural histories, questioning whose stories are told and valued.

Question 2: How does Agard portray the contrast between 'their' history and 'my' history in the poem? What effect does this have on the reader?

Answer: Agard contrasts authoritative, Eurocentric history with his own cultural history, emphasizing empowerment and encouraging readers to value their own identities.

Question 3: Identify and interpret the theme of resistance present in the poem.

Answer: The poem resists the marginalization of non-Western histories, asserting pride in cultural identity and challenging dominant narratives.

Question 1: Quote explosion: Analyze the metaphor 'My history's mine' and discuss how it emphasizes personal and cultural ownership.

Answer: The metaphor 'My history's mine' signifies ownership and pride in one's cultural identity, emphasizing that history belongs to individuals and communities, not just the dominant narrative.

Question 2: Identify and analyze the use of repetition in the poem. How does it impact the poem's message?

Answer: Repetition of phrases like 'Dem tell me' emphasizes the ongoing marginalization and the need to challenge dominant histories, reinforcing the poem's call for awareness.

Question 3: Find an example of alliteration or assonance in the poem. How does it contribute to the poem’s rhythm and emphasis?

Answer: An example is 'blind me to my own history,' where alliteration of 'b' sounds creates a rhythmic effect that draws attention to the suppression of cultural awareness.

Question 1: How does Agard critique traditional notions of power through his portrayal of history?

Answer: Agard challenges the authority of mainstream history, suggesting that true power lies in cultural pride and self-awareness rather than historical dominance.

Question 2: In what ways does the poem promote self-identity and cultural pride?

Answer: By asserting 'Dem tell me,' and highlighting marginalized figures, the poem encourages readers to recognize and value their own cultural histories and identities.

Question 1: How does Agard and Shelley present the idea of power and its effect on legacy? Consider language, tone, and structure.

Answer: Agard presents power as something rooted in cultural identity and resistance, using direct language and a tone of defiance. Shelley depicts power as transient and ultimately doomed, using grand imagery and a structured sonnet form to emphasize the fleeting nature of legacy and hubris.

Question 1: Outline your main points for an essay on how 'Checking Out Me History' uses language devices and structure to convey its themes. Include examples and analysis.

Answer: Main points should include: use of repetition to emphasize marginalization; metaphors and imagery to convey cultural ownership; direct tone to challenge authority; structure that alternates between personal and collective history to highlight contrast; and how these elements engage the reader in valuing cultural identity.