Never Caught: The Washingtons’ Relentless Pursuit of Their Runaway Slave

Use these questions or activities to help gauge students’ familiarity with and spark their interest in the context of the work, giving them an entry point into the text itself.

Short Answer

1. What is a “national myth”? What is America’s national myth, and what consequences (positive and negative) does this myth have for contemporary Americans?

Teaching Suggestion: One of Dunbar’s purposes in writing Never Caught is to highlight aspects of the American national myth that audiences may not have previously examined critically. This prompt begins by asking students for a definition of “national myth”; if their answers indicate gaps in their knowledge, the resources listed below may enhance their understanding. Students may enjoy debating the second question in this prompt; because it has the potential to rouse strong feelings, students may benefit from a review of guidelines for beneficial classroom discussion.

• This 6-minute video from The New York Times explores the construction of national identity.
• This article from Arcadia defines “national myth,” offers historical examples, and considers some of the impacts of national myths.
• This article from Smithsonian Magazine discusses the positive and negative qualities of the American national myth.

2. What are some common misunderstandings regarding slavery in the Northern colonies? Why do you think these misunderstandings persist?