I have a question about The Witch of Blackbird Pond. Why did Matthew Wood fail to sympathize with Kit's loss of her personal slave? I appreciate any good answer.
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In order to understand why Matthew Wood failed to sympathize with Kit's loss of her personal slave in The Witch of Blackbird Pond, it's important to analyze the motivations and beliefs of the characters involved. Matthew Wood, as a conservative Puritan, held a worldview that was deeply rooted in the values of his community.
To get a better grasp on this, we can look at the text and examine the following:
1. Read the passages describing Matthew Wood's character and beliefs: Pay attention to sections where his perspective is described or expressed. Look for his interactions with other characters, specifically Kit, and any conversations regarding slavery or personal servants.
2. Understand the historical context: The Witch of Blackbird Pond is set in colonial America during the late 17th century. Slavery was an accepted practice at the time, and societal views on slavery varied. Research the prevailing attitudes towards slavery during this period, particularly within Puritan communities.
3. Consider Matthew's religious beliefs and social background: Puritanism was a strict religious ideology that emphasized self-discipline, hard work, and adherence to social hierarchy. Examine how these beliefs might have influenced Matthew's views on slavery and personal servants.
4. Pay attention to Kit's perspective and her relationship with Matthew: Kit, being from Barbados and having a different worldview, likely held more sympathetic views towards her personal slave. Analyze any conversations or interactions between Kit and Matthew that shed light on their differing perspectives.
By taking these steps, you should gain a thorough understanding of Matthew Wood's character and beliefs, which will help you explain his lack of sympathy towards Kit's loss of her personal slave. Remember that analyzing character motivations in a novel is subjective to some extent, so differing interpretations are possible.