Question

Why do you think Equiano might have preferred to be a slave in his own country?

Answer 1

Answer:

Because Equiano knew how slavery worked in his own country, but he had no idea what slavery was like in the new world.

Explanation:

Equiano felt more comfortable and secure being a slave in his own country, because he knew how slavery worked in his homeland, he knew the language, the customs and the territory, and, in spite of being in a disadvantaged situation, in his country he was seen as a human being.  However, he had no idea what slavery was like in the new world, where he knew nothing, did not know the language, and was not seen as a human being. The stranger was frightening, and the white men put the slaves into a state of misery because they were seen as a filthy and inferior race.

Answer 2

Answer:

Explanation:

When Equiano boarded the slave ship and saw the condition of the other captives, he realized that his fate would be similar to theirs. He knew that he was being taken away to a faraway land, where there would be more misery and more uncertainty. He felt that, if given the opportunity, he would have preferred the life of a slave in his homeland, where he was familiar with the territory, people, and language. The fear of the unknown was overpowering for him.