Class Discussion:

Slave Stereotypes:

What are stereotypes? Why and how are they formed?

How were stereotypes used to justify slavery? To reassure slave owners?

Why might slaves themselves have reinforced stereotypes?

How have slave stereotypes influenced portrayals of African Americans today? 

What are some "masks" that oppressed groups use? What is the function of such a mask? How can masks be used as a form of resistance?