Student Question
In what ways was Ruth victimized by her father in "The Color of Water"?
Quick answer:
Ruth was victimized by her father, Tateh Shilsky, in several ways. He was racist and judgmental, threatening Ruth that marrying a black man would ruin her. Additionally, he sexually abused her, exploiting his position of power within the family. His negative influence and possible mental instability contributed to his abusive behavior, making Ruth a victim of both his aggressive and passive-aggressive actions.
Tateh Shilsky had both aggressive and passive aggressive ways to victimize Ruth. First, he was racist and judgmental. He hated black people and anyone who was not within a range of acceptance according to him. He told Ruth that if she married a black man it would be the end of her.
Second, he also sexually abused her. He was a very negative influence in the family and perhaps due to his own mental instability committed these atrocious acts against his daughter.
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