Learn English with 12 Years a Slave

In the pre-Civil War United States, Solomon Northup, a free black man from upstate New York, is abducted and sold into slavery. Facing cruelty as well as unexpected kindnesses Solomon struggles not only to stay alive, but to retain his dignity. In the twelfth year of his unforgettable odyssey, Solomon’s chance meeting with a Canadian abolitionist will forever alter his life.

Why learn English with 12 Years a Slave?

"12 Years a Slave" tells the true story of Solomon Northup, a free black man who is kidnapped and sold into slavery. The movie follows his heartbreaking journey through different plantations in the American South. You will learn about the cruel realities of slavery, including the difficult work, the constant threat of violence, and the separation of families. The movie uses vocabulary related to slavery and 19th-century life, like "plantation," "overseer," "slave," "abolitionist," and "freedom." You'll also hear different accents and dialects spoken by the characters. This powerful movie explores themes of injustice, resilience, and the fight for freedom. You will experience a range of emotions, from sadness and anger to hope and determination, as you follow Solomon's struggle. The language used in the movie varies from formal conversations to casual dialogues and songs sung by the enslaved people. Pay attention to the ways characters express their feelings and interact with each other, which will expose you to various forms of English expression. The movie includes both spoken dialogue and some written text, offering a good balance for learners. Learning English with "12 Years a Slave" can be very beneficial. The clear dialogue and engaging story will help you improve your listening comprehension and expand your vocabulary. By following the plot and understanding the characters' emotions, you'll develop a deeper understanding of the English language and its nuances. While the subject matter is challenging, it's an important historical story, and learning about it in English can improve both your language skills and your understanding of American history and culture. Be aware that the movie contains strong language and depictions of violence which might be upsetting.

Words from 12 Years a Slave

Here are the first 15 of the more difficult words in 12 Years a Slave:

gang: a group of people who regularly spend time together, especially young people or criminals
cane: a long, thin stick made from plants like bamboo, used for furniture, supporting plants, helping people walk, or as punishment
shuck: the outer covering of nuts, plants, oysters, or clams
planting: the act of putting seeds or small plants into soil
rush: a sudden quick movement or action; a strong feeling or emotion
sunshine: the light and heat of the sun
pa: a public address system or a personal assistant
idle: not working or being used
darling: a person who is very much liked or loved
cooking: food that is prepared by heating it
gentleman: a polite and educated man with good manners who always behaves well
acquaintance: a person you know, but not well
inquire: to ask someone for information
distinguished: successful and admired
gracious: pleasant and luxurious, often related to royalty or wealthy people