Kemble Knight Essay, Research Paper

Sarah Kemble Knight. Journal.

Group A: Our group found passages to support the idea that Knight was courageous. On the first day of their journey they encountered a thick swamp On the second day they crossed a river which “greatly terrified” knight. She goes on to say “I now ralyed all the courage I was mistress of …” (now would seem like a good time for a woman from the city to call it quits!) On day three Knight can not cross the river because the water is too high at present so she stays at “a little cottage.” Knight says, “this little Hutt was one of the wretchedest I ever saw a habitation for human creatures.” Also on day three Knight says “an Indian-like Animal come to the door.” If knight is concerned about her safety she doesn’t write about it. On December 21 they encounter “a great storm of wind and snow.” Winter probably wasn’t a good time to take a road trip!

Group B: By taking her journey, Sarah Kemble Knight proved her self-reliance and independence. Here are a few dates and instances that really stood out in our minds. Oct. 2nd- Knight bribes John to leave with her. Oct. 3rd- She begins to conquer her fear of drowning by crossing the water in a canoe. Oct. 4th- Knight survived the cruel treatment by “Mr. Devills” and his daughters. Dec. 21st- Knight makes it through illness without much distress. March 3rd- Knight shows her inner strength in that she could be away from her child for so long.