Student Question
Why is Pete shocked by Margaret's response in Maru by Bessie Amelia Emery?
Quick answer:
Pete is shocked by Margaret's response because she openly reveals her Bushman or Masarwa heritage, which is heavily stigmatized. In the book, Bushman people are viewed as inferior, and Pete is surprised she secured a job at the school he oversees. Despite societal prejudice, Margaret proudly discloses her background, defying expectations that she should hide it. Pete even tries to have her removed from her position, but Moleka intervenes to support her.
Pete is shocked because he didn't realize Margaret was a Bushman or Masarwa.
When Pete finds out that Margaret is a member of a tribe that is extremely looked down upon, he's not happy that she's on staff. He's surprised and shocked that she even got the job. Marsarwa people are usually seen as animalistic and less than human. Margaret's friend even recommended that she keep her heritage a secret. She, however, decides to tell him exactly where she comes from when he wants to know. People see Bushman people as so low that they spit on the ground when they pass, but she chooses to share her heritage with pride.
Pete is the principal of the school where Margaret is going to work. He goes to the person above him to try to get her removed. Seth attempts to remove her from the position. Moleka steps in and helps her keep her job.
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