The Known World | Topics for Discussion & Projects

The Known World Topics for Discussion

How moral is Henry's attitude about slavery, by antebellum standards?

How does William Robbins's morals and ethics match or conflict with by antebellum standards?

What does Moses mean by "meeting the mule" in the morning, when he challenges Elias in the evenings?

How are horses used in the novel?

What is Maude's function in the novel?

What is Fern's function in the novel?

What is Alice's function in the novel?

What is the function of the Richmond Home for Colored Orphans in the novel?

Why are Moses's solitary visits to the forest given so much emphasis?

How do you account for the intensity of hatred between Elias and Moses?

Do the discussions of insurance policies on slaves add or detract from the story?

Before the final scene in Washington, D.C., what did you think happened to Priscilla, Jamie, and Alice?

• There are several other books and poems, such as Milton's...
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