Name ______16.1 GLORY

GLORY (a TriStar production) Winner of 2 Academy Awards in 1989

This film depicts the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, the first unitsolely comprised of African-Americans to fight for the Union. The men are led by two idealistic Bostonians while nurtured and inspired by Gravedigger, an older American of African descent.Their indomitable spirit shines through this account.

Despised by the South and distrusted by the North, the 54th overcame seemingly insurmountable odds in their fight to join the war for freedom. Underpaid and ill-equipped, facing certain death at the hands of the Confederacy, the 54th rose to every challenge; from racism within the Union ranks to the harrowing final battle, their courage, skill, and sacrifice paved the way for the Union’s ultimate victory. (producer’s notes)

CAUTION: A disparaging reference to freed black men and former slaves (runaways) is present in the film. Its use and that of coloreds and Negroes was common among immigrant whites and in black to black conversation during this time period. This language will offend, but it is authentic to the setting of the film. At NO TIME is its use today to be considered acceptable.

We will view the entire film over a four day period, beginning on Wednesday the 20th. For each viewing you will be required to complete the following film-study guide.

DAY 1

  1. Why might an African American desire to sign up to fight in thenewly formed 54th Regiment?(3 reasons)
  1. DESCRIBE the camp conditions and daily life. List at least 4 details.
  1. Predict how many will apply for discharge following Commander Shaw’s announcement about the Confederacy’s plans for captured Negro soldiers?

______(a number)

4. List 2 things not mentioned in your notes that stood

out to you in the first day’s viewing.

Day 2

  1. How does Christmas celebration for officers differ from the holiday observance for the 54th?
  1. How did you react to Commander Shaw’s order to whip the returned (escaped) Negro soldier? DESCRIBE your reaction.
  1. What do the men desperately need? (2 things)
  • ______
  • ______
  1. What issue incites the troops? What response does Commander Shaw make? What is the response by his men?
  1. WHY do you think Frederick Douglass is in the grandstand for the parade review?

Day 3

  1. What significance is there to naming Gravedigger as a non-commissioned officer, a Sergeant Major?
  1. How are the 54th and the contrabands under Colonel Montgomery different?
  1. How does Commander Shaw win the promise for fighting action for his men instead of continuing their manual labor assignment they have performed?
  1. DESCRIBE the military action onJamesIsland, July 16, 1863. How many casualties does the 54th sustain?
  1. What answer would you give to the Negro soldier’s question, “What do we get?”

Day 4

  1. “There’s character. Strength of heart.” WHY does Commander Shaw volunteer his men?
  1. DESCRIBE the evening camp scene. What prayer to the Lord do they make?
  1. What evidence is there that the 54th has finally won the admiration of the other regiments?
  1. As Commander Shaw rides to the beach and into the edge of the ocean waters, what do you think he is thinking?
  1. “I’ll see you in the fort, Thomas.” Is Commander Shaw to be believed? Must he be believed?
  1. DESCRIBE the siege of Ft. Wagner. How do you know the outcome?