One of the most popular questions popular questions during the seminar for this chapter was: Do you think Biton has given up? Why?
In my opinion, Biton has not given up. Instead, he has accepted the reality that he is now in South Carolina, and will never return to his homeland. This is his life now, and he knows it. When I picture someone who has given up, I would use words like these to describe them: slumped, defeated, ashamed. Instead, Hill says Biton "stood tall and straight. His skin was oiled and shiny" (Hill, 128). Biton is clearly still the proud man he was when he was chief of his village. Furthermore, Aminata's final interaction with Biton is similar to that with her father. When taken into captivity, her father stood tall and fearless, much like Biton. The last words both men utter to Aminata were her name. We know that Aminata's father was a proud man who died an honorable death, so it can be inferred that Biton has not given up, and maintains his dignity.
Excellent post, Claye! You provide great insight into Biton's character and use the text to support your ideas. His body language certainly suggests that he is strong and proud. Interesting connection to Aminata's father.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing.
M. Chaussé
I toatally agree with what your saying about Biton not giving up, but rather coming to a realization. Your right that Biton holds onto his pride in this exact moment, as he now knows its virtually impossible to get back to the Homeland. But the fact that Biton stands tall and proud it still shows that he has held onto who he is and hasn't let the events going on in his life affect his dignity.
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