Jefferson's "Cabinet"

The majority of the novel is set at Monticello, Jefferson's estate. Above, the main house from the west side.


The tearoom.



A picture of Jefferson's office, known as his "cabinet."

To see more, visit:

http://www.monticello.org/gallery/index.html

Jefferson and Hemmings: Truth or Fiction?

For centuries, there has been debate about whether Thomas Jefferson was the father of Sally Hemming's six children. Throughout our reading of Wolf by the Ears, we will be posting information about this debate on the blog for you to read and consider. Here are a few facts for you to start with:

- The debate began all the way back in 1802, when a journalist "accused" Jefferson of having children with Hemmings. Neither Jefferson nor Hemmings ever commented on this story.

- There are no known pictures of or writings by Sally Hemmings. It is possible that she was illiterate.

- In 1998, a DNA test on members of the Jefferson and Hemmings family found it "highly probable" -- but not definite -- that a member of the Jefferson Family was the father of Eston Hemmings, the last child born to Sally.

For more information, visit the information page at the Monticello website:

http://www.monticello.org/plantation/hemingscontro/hemings-jefferson_contro.html

Response Question :: Fatherhood (1-62)

There is a lot of speculation about whether Jefferson is the father of Harriet and her brother Beverley. Harriet is looking for a clear answer, but she hears and sees many different things. Find one scene or fact from the book that suggests he is her father, and one that suggests he isn't. As of right now, what do you believe, and why?

Response Question :: Choosing Slavehood (1-62)

At several points, Harriet gives reasons why she doesn't want her freedom and would prefer to stay a slave at Monticello. List at least one of her reasons and explain what this shows us about Harriet's character. Do you agree with Harriet's idea to remain a slave?

Response Question :: Reading Family Trees (1-62)

Look closely at the two family trees on the first pages of the book. Does anything strike you as unusual or strange about these families? What can we infer about the names, birth dates, or death dates of the family members?

Why do you think this information is being provided at the beginning of this book? What do you expect the story to be about?

Response Question: Keeping a Journal (1-62)

In December 1819, Thomas Jefferson gives Harriet a journal. Why do you think he did this for her? What does this tell us about his own interests? Are there any other details that Harriet describes about his study which show him as a man of many talents?