Reading and Discussion Guide: The History of Mary Prince, A West Indian Slave
1.
What are some notable features of the preface? Why do you think it
was included? Do you think a testament to the text's authenticity was needed?
2.
What
kinds of cruelties does Mary endure (or in some cases battle against)?
3.
Among the cruelest things Prince is forced to endure are the many
upheavals, separations and changes in situation/identity. How do these affect her and/or her
family?
4.
Despite the constant upheavals, the changes in situation, master,
even identity for Prince, how does she construct a sense of self/values for herself? How does she present herself to us, her
readers?
5.
What does Mary Prince say about the language and culture of white
people? Of what things is she most afraid?
6.
What
kind of imagery and language does Prince use when describing her owners?
7.
What do you think may be features of Mary Prince's account
designed to please a British abolitionist audience?
8.
What
do you think might be some of the reasons for the popularity of slave narratives
such as Prince's?