I thought Kindred was an interesting concept. I haven't read a book about history with such futuristic elements. The idea of Dana time traveling from the 70's to 1815 is futuristic, but it is an element almost lost through the rich history of the novel. The theme of slavery is obvious. Dana is appalled yet she begins to realize people (like Weylin) are acting according to the norm for the time. This is true but the way people break norms are to act differently, which is how slavery was abolished. I understand how Dana would think this way despite the mindset she was in from her own time.
The relationship I would have students examine is the one between Dana and Rufus. I would ask students why they think Dana continues to forgive Rufus and save his life even though she has seen him do unspeakable things like raping Alice. Of course these topics and questions are for an upper level class. This book could be taught with a small group of AP English students. I would like to know what books are like this that could be taught along with it. If anyone knows any let me know!
The discussion on the relationship between Rufus and Dana would be a very interesting one for students to have. I think that students would have very different perspectives on the actions of both Dana and Rufus.
ReplyDeleteTeaching this in an upper level class would be really great. I think that advanced students can really explore the mix of genres, and can also have some great discussions about the character development and relationships between the characters. I particularly like the idea of the relationship between Rufus and Dana. It is an extremely complicated relationship, but one that is integral for Dana's survival.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the post!
-Allison