Saturday, March 15, 2008

Response Question: Three Brothers (125-182)

In this section of the book, Harriet has discussions with each of her three brothers -- Beverly, Eston, and Madison -- about her decision to pass for white and leave Monticello. Each brother has a different opinion about the matter. Which brother do you agree with the most? What specifically did they say that you agree with?

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

I agree with Madison the most. He is at the age where he is able to understand things and deal with them in a positive way . He tells Harriet that he will stay at Monticello past his time because someone has to stay with their mother. He supportr Harriets choices and understands that what she is doin has to be done. He tells Harriet to focus on her lessons so she is ready when her time comes and that the family will be fine and that he will take care of their of mother.

Anonymous said...

I agree with Shanade about Madison. Madison is growing up and even though Madison seems like he don't want Harriet to pass, but in his heart he knows that's the only way she can be safe out in the white world. After she told him about her passing and all, he knows Harriet will do it & will be safe in the white world. Madison will be less worried about his sister being taken away or being sold. He will stay at Monticello to take care of their mother because no one else is staying to take care of her. I agree with Madison telling his sister to do good so when her time comes, it'll really help her. He's really thinking for his sister and his mother. Madison seems like he has a big heart for everyone.

Anonymous said...

I agree with Tiffany& Shanade about Madison because Madison feels that it is Harriets decision to pass as white, and he feels that he can stay with his mom and always comfort her, and be her company.He basically just wants her to accept her uncertain decision. He wants her to focus on her lessons and make sure she knows them very well.

Anonymous said...

I completely agree with Madison. Although he wasn't totally sure as to why Harriet chose to pass for white and leave Monticello, he understood after she explained her reasons. He basically mentioned how he wants Harriet to do what she has to do for her departure. Harriet and Madison knows about the master and his condition. So I agree with Tiff about Madison having a big heart. He's willing to stay past his time to take care of his mother.

Anonymous said...

If i had to agree with one of the brothers i would most agree with Madison. to me he seems to be almost just like Harriet. He doesn't really approve of it but he understands that it is something that she must do. I agree with him the most when he tells her to just focus on her lessons because i to think that is the most important thing at that time. However, i think that Beverly is acting childish and is only worried about his pride. I think he is stubborn and doesn't want to face the facts about his people or himself.

Anonymous said...

I agree with Madison. He is very mature for his age and very understanding. He knew that if she was a free white woman then a free nigra, she would still be treated like a slave. For example, always carring a free paper, but still don't help you at all. He also say he will stay beacuse he want to take care of his mother.

Anonymous said...

The one brother I agree with is Madison. I agree with Madison because he is at a age were he can be more understanding about what Harriet has to do. I think he knew why Harriet wanted to pass as an white woman. I think Harriet concentrating on her studys is an extremely important thing.

Anonymous said...

The brother that i agree with the most is Madison. Madison is the most mature of the situation. He understands that Harriet has to go, even though he doesn't want that to happen. He lets her know that he comprehends by telling her to concentrate on her lessons. He makes Harriet feel optimistic about her decision.

Anonymous said...

The brother I agree with most is Madison. I agree with him because he understands that she has to go in order to know for sure that she'll be safe. He knows what's best for her as a free woman. I also agree with him for staying pass his time to be with his mother. I also agree with him because he takes her situation into consideration[knowing what she just went through with bankhead]and tells her to focus on her studies.