Question

What is the main purpose of the poem?
A)
to show how museums are like cathedrals
B)
to reveal how works of art can be religious
C)
to try and put into words the power of a painting
D)
to explore the relationship between art and worship

Answer 1

Excerpt from: Before a Painting
James Weldon Johnson

I knew not who had wrought with skill so fine
What I beheld; nor by what laws of art
He had created life and love and heart
On canvas, from mere color, curve and line. 4
Silent I stood and made no move or sign;
Not with the crowd, but reverently apart;
Nor felt the power my rooted limbs to start,
But mutely gazed upon that face divine. 8

And over me the sense of beauty fell,
As music over a raptured listener to
The deep-voiced organ breathing out a hymn;
Or as on one who kneels, his beads to tell, 12
There falls the aureate glory filtered through
The windows in some old cathedral dim.

Answer 2

@lianacarolina

Answer 3

what is one idea that you think is not right?

Answer 4

A?

Answer 5

I agree with you there is no mention of a museum

Answer 6

Now what are some major parts of the poem that you understood?

Answer 7

I think the answer is between C and D...

Answer 8

This person James, is amazed with this painting & is describing so. It has nothing to do with religion. There's no relationship in this poem with art & worship.in my opinion I would have to go with C

Answer 9

Are you sure? This seems a bit religious with the 12, divine, hymns, etc..

Answer 10

It is C.. Thank you guys, you helped me a lot!