Virtuous Woman

Objective: Students will review yesterday's test on Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, by Harriet Jacobs
Aim: There is a notion of women being virtuous in Incidents: what does it mean to be virtuous during the 18th century vs. 21st century?

Do Now: What does it mean to be a "good girl" or "good boy" in today's society...what things are expected, what are the rules? To be a "good girl" or "good boy" in today's society means that you follow all the rules set by an authority figure(s) and are responsible and honest.

Requirements: Students will take notes in their notebooks on class discussion, peers perspectives etc. Cite page numbers or chapters to support their perspectives.
Cooperative Learning: Each group will read "The Jealous Mistress." Research the meaning of virtuous (apply it to women in Jacobs' time) where in the text can you find virtuosity in both men and women and who truly possesses it?
Virtuous- conforming to moral and ethical principles; pure and good.

"One day he caught me teaching myself to write. He frowned, as if he was not well pleased; but I suppose he came to the conclusion that such an accomplishment might help to advance his favorite scheme. Before long, notes were often slipped into my hand. I would return them, saying, "I can't read them, sir." "Can't you?" he replied; "then I must read them to you." He always finished the reading by asking, "Do you understand?"- pg.31

In this quote Linda is trying not to engage herself in Dr. Flint's sexual endeavors that's why she says she can't read the note. Linda knows what Dr. Flint wants from her and is trying her best to stand clear of him whenever he attempts to make a move.

"Tell me, then, as you hope to be forgiven, are you innocent of what I have accused you?. I am. She handed me a Bible, and said, "Lay your hand on your heart, kiss this holy book, and swear before God that you tell me the truth. I took the oath she required, and I did it with a clear conscience. You have taken God's holy word to testify your innocence, said she. If you have deceived me, beware! Now take this stool, sit down, look me directly in the face, and tell me all that has passed between your master and you."- pg.33

In this quote Linda tries to prove to the jealous Mrs. Flint that her word is the truth, and that her husband should be the one she accuses of wrong doing.

Accommodations: Students may use dictionaries to better comprehend vocabulary. Teacher will be more than happy to re-read passage and sit with students who may need more guidance. Students may use their notes and past handouts. Lesson may contain illustrations for visual learners.