Final answer:
Equiano preferred to spend time on deck to avoid the suffocating stench and heat of the ship's hold, making the conditions below deck nearly unbearable.
Step-by-step explanation:
Olaudah Equiano spent most of his time on deck instead of below deck because the stench and heat below deck suffocated him. The conditions in the hold of the ship were intolerable, as described by Equiano in his narrative: 'The stench of the hold...was so intolerably loathsome, that it was dangerous to remain there for any time...The closeness of the place, and the heat of the climate....almost suffocated us.' The terrible environment of the hold included inadequate ventilation, horrible odors, and horrifying sounds from the other captives, which made it nearly impossible to survive for extended periods. Therefore, the answer to the question is D: The stench and heat below deck suffocated him.
complete question:
Why did Equiano spend most of his time on deck instead of below deck?
(Olaudah Equiano)
A. He was too weak to survive below deck.
B. He was young and would be crushed.
C. The sailors knew that escape was impossible.
D. The stench and heat below deck suffocated him.