Beloved, Parts 3, Grades 11-12

In the third part of 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison, the revelation of Beloved's identity to the community's intervention brings the past sharply into focus. This section explores the deep scars left by slavery and the struggle for identity and redemption among the characters. As you answer the questions, consider how Morrison uses these revelations to deepen our understanding of the characters and the themes of the novel.

How does the community's perception of Sethe and her family change after the revelation of Beloved's identity?

Analyze how the theme of redemption is explored through Sethe's character in this part of the book.

Discuss the significance of the clearing scene where Sethe, Denver, and Beloved go to meet Baby Suggs' spirit. How does this scene affect the characters?

How does Morrison use the character of Beloved to represent the collective memory and trauma of slavery?

Examine the role of storytelling in this section. How do the stories told by the characters serve as a means of confronting or escaping their past?