The idea of love is present in differen ways throughout the novel, Beloved, by Toni Morrison. However, love is expressed in several extreme ways. Use the four questions below to discuss the ideas of love as it pertains to the main characters: Sethe, Paul D, Denver, Baby Suggs, Beloved, etc.
1. In what ways does Morrison portray Sethe's love for her children as twisted, or unethical? Does this representation give the reader a clear view of Sethe's personality?
2. We have learned some of the harsh torture that Paul D has been through. Do his experiences allow him to love stronger, or is he gaurded when it comes to opening up? How does he make his opinion on love clear to Sethe? Give specific examples and explain fully.
3. We as readers can tell that Denver is a very self-centered person. But, when Beloved shows up, how does Denver react? How is her reaction contradictory to her personality? Explain fully.
4. How is Baby Suggs' relationship with her children different than the relationship that Sethe has with her kids? How does Baby Suggs' relationship with Halle contrast with her other children? Explain.
When Sethe tries so hard to get to her nursing daughter, it is because she wants to be a nurturing mother. The schoolteacher's nephews take that right away from her when they steal her milk. Yet, Sethe is proud that, when she got to 124, she was able to nurse both of her daughters, hence able to behave like a mother to them. Just 28 days later, it is clear that slavery is still interfering in the family bonds when Sethe feels she has to kill her children to keep them safe.
ReplyDeleteThere are numerous other instances of slavery interfering in families. Baby Suggs's husband escaped, so they are apart. Paul D's brother was sold away from Sweet Home. Stamp Paid had to allow his master to use his wife sexually for a year. When there are families, it is dangerous to love too much because slavery may steal away family. Sethe loves her children too much, and they all suffer for it
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