For this discussion, you will start by reading this letterLinks to an external site. from Richard Frethorne. Make sure you note who he (the author) was and when/where/why he wrote this letter. As you read, think about what you have learned about the Chesapeake Bay region and the founding of the Virginia colony (starting with Jamestown). What kind of culture and economy were set up in its early years? What were relations with Native Americans like? In what ways do you think the letter reflects the kind of society the English colonists initially established in this region?
For your initial post, describe some details (and/or quotes) from the letter that you think illustrate life in the Virginia colony in the early 1600s. Then use the readings from this module to provide context and help explain why Frethorne had these experiences. Based on what we have learned, how common do you think his experience was? How might life have changed for colonists in Virginia later in the 1600s? (10 points)
Note: There is no word count requirement for discussion posts, but they should be a good paragraph of several sentences that incorporates specific information from the assigned readings. Please use only the sources assigned in the module; do not consult outside sources unless you get them approved ahead of time.
Make sure you respond to at least one classmate. Can you spot any similarities between their observations about Frethorne and this song written by an English girlLinks to an external site. who was sent to Virginia? Can you think of any additional information about the colony that would help further our understanding of what these documents are discussing? (3 points)
Remember that the discussion is worth more than the other quizzes and activities in the module, so be as thorough as you can. The discussion will close after one week, and no late posts will be accepted after that date (unless you submit documentation of an emergency).
A few reminders:
Don’t forget to cite your sources! Put the author’s last name in parentheses after the section or sentence where you described or quoted them. If you are using a source where you don’t know the author’s last name, use the title.
Please note that discussion posts must describe and explain specific information from the assigned sources in your own words. Posts that use outside sources (unless you get approval ahead of time), posts that use AI-generated language, or posts that only provide a vague summary or description will not receive credit.
