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Amistad

The Amistad Revolt Viewer's Guide
Supreme Court Decision Printable Map of the Voyage
"Steal Away" (Negro Spiritual)
Thanks to Santa Barbara HS Chior

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The screen play of AMISTAD, written by David Franzoni and produced by Steven Spielberg, Debbie Allen and Colin Wilson, is of the historical fiction film genre. This means that the author weaves a story set in a particular historical period and based upon actual events in history.

Study these literary concepts, and then do a complete plot analysis of the film:

Identify each of the following:

  • Setting
  • Mood
  • Point of View
  • Central Conflict  
  • Protagonist  
  • Antagonist
  • Inciting Cause  
  • Climax  
  • Resolution
  • Historical Elements

Literary devices employed:

Give examples of how each is used in the story, and explain their effect upon the plot, the characters, the viewers.

  • foreshadow
  • flashback
  • suspense
  • irony
  • symbolism

Theme:

What statement is the author making in this story about human nature and/or society in general?

Explain how events in the film prove or support the statement you mentioned above.

The story of AMISTAD is only one of many events in the history of black people in America. Use the links below to learn more about their struggle for freedom and their many contributions to the growth of our nation.

Journey Through Slavery The Middle Passage
American Civil War Black Resistance
The Emancipation Proclamation:
An Act of Justice
(an overview of the history and
ramifications of the Proclamation.)		 Up from Slavery
An Autobiography
by Booker Taliaferro Washington
An Interactive Treasure Hunt A Deeper Shade of History
Black History Tour Black History Hotlist
California African-American Museum Honoring African-American Astronauts

For an in-depth study to expand your knowledge of this historical period and the American Judicial System, I recommend The AMISTAD Case: a Mock Trial - a WebQuest project designed by Tom Fehrenbacher 

Read more Historical Fiction

 

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© 1998 - C.O. Burleson

This Website is provided for educational purposes.  It has no official connection with the author or the producers of the film other than a respect for their work.

03/09/02

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