Checkin Out Me History

Question 1

Summary:

Answer 1

1. Talks about historical figures he was taught about
2. Despite not being taught about black figures, he will learn about them himself

Question 2

Context:

Answer 2

1. Agard was born in Guyana, went to school here
2. Given a eurocentric view of history
3. Denied his own identity

Question 3

“Bandage up me eye with me own history Blind me to me own identity.” 1

Answer 3

1. Metaphor shows impact of historical erasure
2. Dominant historical narrative excludes and distorts the contributions of mariginalised groups
3. Prevents them from embracing their heritage
4. Insidious nature of hegemony

Question 4

“Dem tell me bout Colombus and 1492 but what happen to de Caribs and de Arawaks.” 2

Answer 4

1. Critiques the eurocentric portrayal of CC as a hero
2. Whilst disregarding the impact of colonisation on indigenous people
3. Demands recognition for the silenced victims of colonialism
4. Need to confront uncomfortable beyond the dominant narrative

Question 5

“a healing star among the wounded a yellow sunrise to the dying.” 3

Answer 5

1. Associated with guidance and protection
2. Shows that Seacole can alleviate pain
3. Sunrise, new beginning, hope
4. Her care brought a source of hope
5. Shows everyday casual racism
6. Seacole arguably did more than FN but is less known.

Question 6

“I carving out me identity.” 4

Answer 6

1. Reclaims his agency and his identity
2. Rejects the dominant narrative of history
3. Celebrates the power of self-discovery
4. Honour one’s roots and choosing your own identity

Question 7

Comparison:

Answer 7

Emigree: both grapple with their identities. Agard is colonial vs real history. Emigree is her nostalgia vs reality. But CMOH demonises his childhood, Emigree she romaticises it.

Question 8

Structure:

Answer 8

1.Dual Structure
2. Separation between the history he was taught and black history.