Olaudah Equiano Checking Comprehension and Critical Thinking Questions p.47-48

How can you tell that Equiano has a great zest for life despite his assertion that he wanted to die? Provide examples from the narrative.

He showed interest and curiosity for the tools the crew had. This proved his zest for life.

How does Equiano's voyage compare with those of explorers and colonists?

He was forced to come, slaves, and whites were made comfortable.

Equiano's narrative was instrumental in the fight to ban the slave trade in America. What persuasive evidence does his description of the middle passage offer?

The condition of the ship, when the man came back abroad and they thought he was going to eat him, and the description of the merchant's yard.

Why does Equiano blame the illness aboard the ship on the " improvident avarice: of the traders?

The illness aboard the ship was mainly caused by the cramped spaces, unbearable smell, and lack of food.

Summarize the conditions for the slaves on board the ship.

They were appalling. Themen were packed together below the deck and were secured by leg irons.

How did Equiano's age affect his experiences during the voyage?

When he was young he was always allowed on the deck of the ship allowing him to spend less time with the room he held the other slaves.

For what crimes were slaves punished?

Whipping, shackling, hanging, beating.