Invisible Man, Chapters 3-4, Grades 11-12

In Chapters 3 and 4 of 'Invisible Man' by Ralph Ellison, we delve into the narrator's experiences at the college and his encounter with Mr. Norton, which lead to significant developments in the story. These chapters introduce new themes and challenges that the narrator faces, deepening our understanding of his journey towards self-discovery. Your task is to analyze these chapters closely, focusing on the characters, their interactions, and the underlying themes.

How does the narrator describe the college? What does this setting reveal about the expectations and realities faced by African American students during this time period?

Discuss the significance of the narrator's encounter with the veteran at the Golden Day. How does this encounter impact Mr. Norton and the narrator?

Examine Mr. Norton's reaction to the stories he hears at the Golden Day. What does his reaction reveal about his character and his relationship with the college?

Analyze the symbolism of the statue of the Founder that the narrator describes in Chapter 3. How does this symbol relate to the broader themes of the novel?

Reflect on the narrator's role and actions in these chapters. How do his experiences with Mr. Norton and the veteran at the Golden Day contribute to his understanding of his own identity and the concept of invisibility?