Cleverness

Definition

Cleverness refers to the ability to think quickly and creatively, often using wit or intelligence to solve problems or navigate tricky situations. In various stories, this trait is often depicted through characters who outsmart their opponents or overcome challenges using their ingenuity, rather than relying solely on strength or power.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Cleverness in these narratives often leads to the triumph of the underdog over stronger foes, showcasing intelligence as a form of power.
2. Characters like Anansi and Br'er Rabbit utilize cleverness to navigate challenges posed by more powerful adversaries, emphasizing the theme of brains over brawn.
3. The cleverness displayed by these characters often reflects cultural values, teaching lessons about resourcefulness and the importance of intellect.
4. Cleverness is not just about trickery; it also involves strategic thinking and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
5. In many stories, the clever protagonist learns valuable lessons about humility and respect, illustrating that cleverness must be balanced with wisdom.

Review Questions

• How does cleverness serve as a tool for characters like Anansi and Br'er Rabbit in their stories?
  • Cleverness acts as a vital tool for characters such as Anansi and Br'er Rabbit, allowing them to outwit stronger opponents and navigate complex situations. Their ability to think quickly and devise ingenious solutions showcases how intelligence can be a powerful asset. This trait reinforces the narrative that brains can triumph over brawn, teaching audiences the value of using one's wit in overcoming challenges.
• Discuss how the portrayal of cleverness in these tales reflects cultural attitudes towards intelligence and cunning in overcoming adversity.
  • The portrayal of cleverness in these tales highlights cultural attitudes that value intelligence and cunning as essential traits for overcoming adversity. These characters represent the idea that cleverness is not only practical but also a moral lesson about using one's skills wisely. By illustrating how the clever protagonist triumphs over brute force, these stories communicate a broader cultural appreciation for wisdom, resourcefulness, and strategic thinking in facing life's challenges.
• Evaluate the implications of using cleverness as a primary trait for protagonists in folklore, particularly regarding themes of power dynamics and social justice.
  • Using cleverness as a primary trait for protagonists in folklore reveals significant implications regarding power dynamics and social justice. Characters like Anansi and Br'er Rabbit symbolize the struggle against oppression and injustice, using their intelligence to level the playing field against stronger adversaries. This narrative choice empowers marginalized voices by demonstrating that cleverness can serve as a form of resistance against domination, encouraging audiences to reflect on the importance of wit and ingenuity in seeking justice and equality.

Related terms

Wit: The mental ability to perceive and express ideas in a clever, humorous, or quick manner.

Resourcefulness: The ability to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties, often involving innovative thinking.

Trickster:

A character archetype that uses cunning and cleverness to challenge authority, often through deception or mischief.