1. In general, how did minstrel songs depict African Americans? What do you think that these types of songs imply about the racial and social hierarchy of nineteenth-century America?
2. How does the use of dialect (a regional variety of language, in this case "black speech") in the minstrel shows reinforce racial stereotypes? Use specific examples from the 3 songs. Can you name some contemporary forms of expression or popular culture in which racial terms and depictions are acceptable?
3. Who does the song "Mary and Sambo" blame for the interracial romance? Why?
4. What does the song "Mary and Sambo" mean by "the point . . . of social law"?
5. In your opinion, is the song "Pompey Moore" a critique of racism? Or is it an song that justifies racism? Explain your answer.
6. In "Young Eph's Lament", how does the use of dialect reinforce racial stereotypes?
7. What indication is there that dialect in "Young Eph's Lament" mimics the language of African Americans and was also used for satirical purposes?
8. Minstrel shows were MORE popular in the North than in the South. What does the popularity of minstrel shows reveal about northern audiences?