Bell Activity AGENDA Copy word of the day Copy word of the day Objective Jan 9, 2013 To identify allusion, refrain; to recognize symbolism in the poetry Bell Activity Copy word of the day Grisly—horrible, shocking, hideous. EX: The new Texas Chainsaw Massacre is said to be even more grisly than the original AGENDA Copy word of the day

Level III words--copy Allusion—reference to something from the Bible, history, literature, mythology or modern media Refrain—line or lines repeated in a poem or song that emphasizes or stresses central idea Metaphor – implied comparison between two unlike ideas. Symbolism—an object, place, person represents an idea, quality

Historical background Oral tradition—stories passed down between generations of people about their troubles, successes and history. Song form Story form

Spirituals Sorrow songs 6000 spirituals have been documented (Library of Congress) Combined tunes of Christian songs with finger-snapping rhythms of traditional African music Allowed enslaved Africans to keep elements of their culture and to start a new culture while facing the difficulties of slavery

Other purposes—Code using allusion and symbolism Egypt—South, or slavery Promised land—North, or freedom Heaven—North “Keep your hand on the plow”—story of Paul and Silas in the Bible whom God freed after sending an earthquake

Think about it?—Answer on back of handout Why was it important for the Africans to create these songs? Do you turn to music for comfort? What types and why?

BIG IDEA What role (part) did the spirituals play in the Africans struggle for freedom?

Historical context--- What were the lives of slaves like? Worked long hours Were not permitted to be educated Were not permitted to read Were not permitted to communicate with each other Were not looked on as intelligent or responsible

What role did spirituals play? Gave African Americans much needed encouragement Gave details about escape plans Gave them a chance to see themselves as people “ depicted as the beloved children of a just and mighty God, destined for freedom.” Sung during worship, rest, work, play

Background from the Bible/possible allusions Egypt’s pharaoh (king) enslaved Jewish people much like Southern slave owners. Moses sent as representative to the pharaoh from God Moses warned of consequences if pharaoh did not release the Jews. (river Jordan would turn to blood, locusts, disease of boils and warts on his people, finally death first born son) Pharaoh would not relent at first, finally gave in with death of first born. Jews crossed the river Jordan to the Promised Land.