Minnie's Sacrifice

"Minnie's Sacrifice" by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper is a tale set in the 19th century United States, where race and slavery deeply impacted society. It centers on Minnie, a young girl with mixed heritage, growing up with a white family in the South, unaware of her identity. The story brings up the topics of love, identity, and sacrifice, especially linked to slavery and prejudice in society. At the start, Miriam, a sad mother, grieves the loss of her daughter Agnes, who suffered under slavery. Camilla, the white mistress's daughter, wants to shield Agnes's baby. Camilla is against societal prejudices and wants to raise the child as a white boy, which brings contrasts in treatment because of race. The story slowly increases the tension, revealing the challenges of existing during social complexities and racial injustice. This creates a space to discuss love, loss, and finding out who you are in history.