1. What effect might having a weak voice have had on Madison's personality?

2. In what ways does Fritz explain Madison's attitudes toward slavery? Evaluate the effectiveness of her explanation.

3. According to Fritz, "James Madison said that prolonging the slave trade was 'dishonorable to the American character'," yet he owned slaves. How does Fritz explain this? Is the explanation she gives convincing? Why or why not?

4. When is Madison first called "the Great Little Madison"? Why was he called "the Great Little Madison"? What positive or negative effect did this label have?

5. How did Dolley change Madison's life?

Evaluate her influence, good or bad, using evidence supplied in this biography.

6. Why would Dolley delay her escape from the invading British to save the portrait of George Washington? What does this decision reveal about her character and values?

7. If, as Fritz says, "All his life he suffered...