In HOPE LESLIE, the theme of captivity is prevalent.. How is it portrayed in the novel with the major characters (Hope, Magawisca and Everell) getting captured?ALSO, in what ways is Sedgwick AGAINST the captivity theme?Any pointers or ideas will help me in writing my analysis paper because I completely suck at analysis..THANKS

I've never read this, but these sites may help.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hope_Leslie

http://www.bookrags.com/Hope_Leslie

http://www.enotes.com/hope-leslie-reference/hope-leslie

In "Hope Leslie," the theme of captivity is indeed prevalent and plays a significant role in the narrative. The novel showcases the captivity experiences of the major characters including Hope Leslie, Magawisca, and Everell.

To analyze the theme of captivity in the novel and its portrayal of the major characters, you can consider the following points:

1. Hope Leslie: Hope experiences captivity when she is kidnapped by the Pequots. This captivity serves as a turning point for her character development. She displays resilience and courage during her time in captivity, challenging traditional gender norms and asserting her autonomy.

2. Magawisca: As a Native American woman captured by English settlers, Magawisca represents the theme of captivity from a different perspective. Her experience highlights the injustices and conflicts arising from the colonization of Native American lands. Through Magawisca's character, Sedgwick explores the themes of cultural clash and loss of identity.

3. Everell: Everell, a Puritan settler, also falls prey to captivity when he is taken prisoner by the Pequots. This experience leads to his bond with Magawisca, transcending cultural and societal barriers. Everell's captivity contributes to the novel's exploration of the complexity of relationships and the potential for connection even in adverse circumstances.

Sedgwick, however, also presents her opposition against the theme of captivity in several ways. Here are a few ideas to consider:

1. Critique of Eurocentrism: Sedgwick challenges the dominant Eurocentric narrative that devalues Native American cultures and portrays them as savage or inferior. Through her characters, she criticizes the captivity of indigenous peoples as a form of cultural suppression.

2. Empowerment and Resistance: Sedgwick highlights the agency and resilience of her female characters in captivity. Hope and Magawisca, in particular, challenge conventional gender roles and actively resist their captors, showcasing a feminist perspective against captivity.

3. Interracial Bonding: Sedgwick emphasizes the potential for connection and understanding across cultural boundaries, even in the context of captivity. By portraying relationships between captives and captors, Sedgwick counters the simplistic view of captivity as solely depicting oppressor-oppressed dynamics.

To further develop your analysis, consider analyzing the narrative techniques employed by Sedgwick, such as the use of imagery, dialogue, and symbolism in depicting captivity. Additionally, explore the historical and social context of the novel to better understand Sedgwick's intentions and the broader themes she explores.

Remember, analysis requires careful examination of the text, attention to details, and providing evidence to support your arguments. Good luck with your paper!