Roots Papers & Assignment Topics

Essay Topics/Writing Assignments

These 20 essay questions can be used as essay questions on a test, or as stand-alone essay topics for a take-home or in-class writing assignment. Students should have a full understanding of the text in order to answer these questions. They ask for a thorough analysis of the text.

1. Describe Kunta's life as a baby. How does that compare to his life as an adult slave? How is his life as an adult different in America from what it would be in Africa?

2. When is the first time Kunta comes to feel the emotions of his people as they dance around a ceremonial fire? What happens to him at this ceremony? Why does it happen at this time? How does it affect him?

3. What is the belief of Kunta's people regarding the toubob and the taking of slaves? What is the significance...
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