Week of 03/29/2016

As you begin to analyze this document, notice that it contains two distinct parts. The first of these consists of series of resolutions, (they follow the preamble, beginning with "Whereas"). The preamble (that whereas part) quotes the famous English scholar, Sir William Blackstone. You may remember that he was mentioned in the Grimke letters we read for Thursday. As you markup your copy. I'd like you to do some specific things, along with whatever else catches your eye and imagination.

The preamble to Seneca Falls quotes Blackstone. But Blackstone isn't being original here. Which of the people we've studied so far in this class seems to be echoed in the preamble to the Declaration of Rights and sentiments?

As you look through the resolutions (there are eleven of them). See if you note again some "echoes" of what we've looked at before. For example, what does "of no force or authority" mean, and what does that suggest about a person's obligations in such situations?

At more than one of the resolutions includes a complaint against certain types of women. Mark them, and indicate whether you agree or not? (We will see a woman expressing similar sentiments in the video, Half the People. )

Of course also raise questions about the parts you need to have clarified.

The second half of this document was presented to the Convention the following day. The first three paragraphs ought to have a familiar ring to them. In fact, you will probably notice that only two words have been added to the second paragraph. Highlight those two words.

Following those three paragraphs, there is a series of shorter paragraphs. If you had to give this section a title, put your choice in a sticky note.

As you look over the list, indicate which you agree with and which you disagree with.