“The New Colossus”
Emma Lazarus
Page 493
Allusion
• Colossus is an ancient Greek
statue of the Greek figure
Helios.
• It’s on the island of Rhodes near
Greece.
• It was built to celebrate a
victory over an invading nation.
• It was over 100 ft. tall and was
one of the tallest structures of
the ancient world.
• THINK: What did this Colossus
symbolize?
Statue of Liberty
• Part of the poem is on a plaque on The Statue
of Liberty.
• What does The Statue of
Liberty symbolize for
Americans?
• For immigrants?
• To the rest of the world?
• PREDICT: What themes do you
think the poem “The New
Colossus” will have?
“The New Colossus”
• Part of the poem is on a plaque on The Statue
of Liberty.
Vocabulary (April)
1. Brazen – like brass, as in sound, color, or strength.
(adj)
2. Exiles – anyone separated from his or her country
or home voluntarily or by force of circumstances.
(n)
3. Beacon – a guiding or warning signal, as a light or
fire, usually in an elevated position. (n)
4. Tempest – a storm (n)
5. Yearning – deep longing, especially when
accompanied by tenderness or sadness (used as n)
6. Wretched – very unfortunate in condition or
circumstances; miserable; pitiable; awful.
Discussion Questions
1. How does Colossus contrast to “The Mother of
Exiles?”
2. Who are the huddled masses coming to
America?
3. Which words spoken by the statue are the most
important? Why?
4. “I lift my lamp beside the golden door” is a
metaphor. Explain what it means.
5. What do you think Lazarus is saying about
America in this poem?
“The New Colossus” Quiz. Answer on a half sheet of paper.
1. What details tell you the old Colossus was probably huge and warlike in
appearance?
a. “Mighty woman with a torch”
c. “Brazen giant”
b. “Mild eyes”
d. “Wretched refuse”
2. How does the name Lazarus gives The Statue of Liberty differ from
Colossus?
a. The name is welcoming to new comers
b. Exile means strong like brass
b. Mother always means something nice
d. It doesn’t; they’re the same
3. Which statement best restates what Lazarus thinks the statue is saying?
a. The statue’s light is important.
b. The statue sees lots of poor, huddled
people.
c. The statue is welcoming to some people. d. The statue says it will give a home to all
immigrants.
4. Readers can infer that Lazurus:
a. Wishes Colossus was still standing.
c. Thinks the Statue of Liberty is pleasant.
b. Believes in The American Dream.
d. Doesn’t like immigrants.