Worksheet: Beloved – Sethe's Choice and Social Issues
English
GCSE
8 questions
~16 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet exploring Sethe's decision in Beloved, focusing on social issues such as slavery, motherhood, and moral dilemmas. Includes creative writing tasks and analytical questions to deepen understanding of the character's choices within their social context.
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Worksheet: Beloved – Sethe's Choice and Social Issues
Subject: EnglishGrade: GCSE
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Date:
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade GCSE
A
Introduction and Context
In Toni Morrison's novel Beloved, Sethe is a former slave who escapes to Cincinnati seeking freedom and safety for her family. Her decision to kill her own daughter rather than allow her to be enslaved reflects the extreme moral dilemmas faced by enslaved individuals. The story explores themes of motherhood, trauma, and the social injustices of slavery. Sethe's choice is a powerful act rooted in her desperate desire to protect her children from a brutal system. As the narrative unfolds, readers are encouraged to consider how social issues influence personal decisions and the moral complexities involved. The novel also examines the legacy of slavery and its impact on identity, community, and social justice, prompting reflection on historical and contemporary social issues related to race, freedom, and morality. Key phrases such as 'rememory' and 'beloved' serve as symbols for collective trauma and the enduring effects of social injustice.
B
Analytical Questions
Answer the following questions based on the summary and your understanding of the novel. Support your responses with examples where appropriate.
1.
Describe in brief the social circumstances that influence Sethe's decision to kill her daughter.
[2 marks]2.
Identify a literary technique used to emphasise the theme of moral dilemma in Sethe's choice.
[2 marks]3.
Explain how Morrison uses symbolism to explore the social issues in the novel.
4.
What does Sethe's act suggest about the extent of her desperation and moral conflict?
[2 marks]5.
Select the option that best describes Morrison's portrayal of social injustice in the novel.
[1 mark]Aa) As an historical backdrop only
Bb) As a central influence on character decisions
Cc) As a distant issue
Dd) As a minor theme
C
Creative Writing Task: Sethe’s Moral Dilemma
Imagine you are Sethe faced with a similar moral dilemma in a contemporary social setting. Write a short story (around 600 words) exploring your decision-making process.
1.
Create a detailed character profile for yourself in this scenario, considering how social issues influence your morals and choices.
2.
Outline the key events leading up to your decision and justify your actions based on social and personal factors.
3.
In your story, include at least one symbolic object or phrase that represents the social issues influencing your decision.
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Details
- Created
- 12/31/2025
- Updated
- 12/31/2025
- Type
- worksheet