Chapter Four: Mercy

Pre-Reading Discussion:

What may be reasons for Ginnie to have her name changed? Do you know anyone who has changed his or her name? Why did they do so?

Vocabulary:

• luxuriant (p.78)
• franchise (p.79)
• lucrative (p.80)
• vigilance (p.82)
• intermittent (p82)
• sarcastically (p.82)
• narrative (p.87)

Read:

Chapter Four

Post-Reading Discussion:

• What is the function of the free born Quick Family, their money, prestige, and education?
• In what ways are the people you know today similar to and different from those in the Quick family?
• Compare the work of Mercer’s family on the plantation in Virginia to the work of the freemen in Philadelphia.

Writing Activity:

On Ginnie's first day of freedom what were some of her memories and experiences?Write a Dear Diary entry for Ginnie stating important events, activities, and feelings.