From the time of its publication, Uncle Tom's Cabin has been controversial. To better understand the debate, class members first examine a broadside decrying the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850, and then two newspaper reviews of the novel that espouse very different points of view of Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel.

Concepts

the fugitive slave act, fugitive slaves, harriet beecher stowe, uncle tom's cabin, slavery, abolitionists, the abolitionist movement

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Additional Tags

social studies

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Instructional Ideas

• Coordinate the reading of the novel in language arts classes with a study of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 in social studies classes

Classroom Considerations

• Although the broadside and the newspaper reviews of Uncle Tom's Cabin in the resource are difficult to read, readable versions are linked
• The resource includes a caution that the language used in the newspaper articles is considered offensive today
• Establish a protocol for a safe, respectful discussion of controversial issues and language

Pros

• The lesson is designed to develop critical thinking and media literacy skills

Cons

• None

Common Core

RI.9-10.1 RI.11-12.1