Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journey from Slavery to Freedom

What personal qualities and characteristics served as assets for William and Ellen?

Unlike William, Ellen was more reserved as a public speaker and advocate. What may have been the reasons for her demureness?

How were William and Ellen’s experiences of racism different? How does the intersection of race and gender play a role in their stories?

How did William and Ellen’s identities change throughout their journey? How did their move to England give them the opportunity to explore personal identities independent of one another? Why is this important?

Why did the Crafts’ story appeal to white audiences? What does this reveal about bias and racism?

Which names in Woo’s novels are easily recognizable? Which are lesser known? What is the reason for these celebrations and omissions? What do they reveal about modern perspectives on historical events?

How does the ending of the Crafts’ story mirror the story of American slavery? What lessons can be learned from the failures and challenges they faced at the end of their lives? What makes this such an important story?

What factors motivated William and Ellen? How were these similar to or different from other individuals’ motivations in Woo’s narrative?