Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison

Compare and contrast English settler culture and Seneca culture as portrayed in the novel. Consider religion/spirituality, discipline of children, work, time, etc. 

The novel contains many detailed descriptions of how specific Seneca items were traditionally made. Research and write a procedural essay for making a Seneca item from the time period of the novel. 

Research and write a historical essay about the French and Indian War and the role of Indigenous peoples in the conflict.

Trace Molly’s transformation over the course of the novel. What specific events and relationships shape her character?

How does the narrative style shift in Chapter 1 during the attack on the Jemisons’ home? What details does Lois Lenski use to convey Molly’s state of shock?

For most of the novel, the narration is tied to Molly’s perspective. At which points in the novel does the narration shift to include knowledge that Molly does not have access to? Why does the author make these narrative shifts?

Research the historical life of Mary Jemison. Compare and contrast her biography to the fictionalized depiction of her life in the novel.

Rewrite a key event or chapter from another character’s point of view and explore how this perspective changes the narrative.