21. Document Project 21: The New Negro and the Harlem Renaissance

Quiz for Document 21.9 Bessie Smith, “Down-Hearted Blues,” 1923

Quiz for Document 21.9: Bessie Smith, “Down-Hearted Blues,” 1923

Choose the best answer to each question.

1. What gave Bessie Smith the “Down-Hearted Blues”?

Her workload provided her with no time to be with the man she loved.

The man she loved treated her poorly and left her.

The man she loved cheated on her with another woman.

She could not find the right man because she was in trouble.

2. How is “Down-Hearted Blues” reminiscent of the message of traditional gospel songs?

Melancholy themes

Love story message

Emphasis on redemption

Uplifting message

3. Why might Smith’s blues have been so appealing within the context of the era?

She was an African American performer.

She was entertaining and talented.

She had a religious message.

Her message crossed racial lines.

Exploring American HistoriesPrinted Page 716