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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. In July 1820, why does Harriet say she is worried about Beverly?

2. What does Jefferson give Harriet as a gift before she leaves?

3. In October 1820, what does Harriet say kept her too busy to write in her journal?

4. Why is Jefferson a little offended when he learns of Harriet's engagement?

5. What is Harriet determined to do after Beverly leaves?

Short Essay Questions

1. In October of 1821, why is Harriet spending her free time walking around the plantation?

2. What is Jefferson's personal conflict regarding his attitude toward Sally and her children?

3. What reason does Harriet give Martha for her decision to pass as white?

4. Why is Harriet's fiance worried that by becoming engaged to him she will be trading one master for another?

5. Why doesn't Martha like Madison?

6. What about Jefferson's fulfilling of his promise to Sally to free her children makes Sally sad?

7. What does Beverly tell Harriet to prove to her that Jefferson will never acknowledge that they are his children?

8. Why is it clear that Peter Carr is not Harriet's or Beverly's father?

9. What about Sally's attitude toward Beverly's decision on the subject of his freedom bothers Harriet?

10. What does Harriet finally realize when she considers that the other slave girls have only getting married and having babies in their futures?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Although Jefferson is an actual historical figure, the author undoubtedly takes some license in the portrayal of his character and the relationship between Jefferson, Sally, and Harriet. Discuss the way in which Jefferson's character and his interactions with Sally and Harriet are portrayed. What parts of these interactions are likely literary fabrications? Are there certain elements we know to be true? What are these elements?

Essay Topic 2

Harriet's need for security is in direct contrast to her mother's desire for Harriet's freedom. Yet, we might also see her freedom as offering another kind of security. In what ways does life on the plantation offer Harriet security? In what ways does freedom offer security? What risks are involved in both life on the plantation and freedom? Why does Harriet ultimately choose freedom?

Essay Topic 3

Harriet tells Beverly that by passing for white, she is not turning her back on her family and her heritage, she is merely embracing her other half. What does she mean by this? Can she ever truly embrace her white side without turning her back on her black side? Why or why not?

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