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Essay / Uncle Tom's Cabin, by Harriet Beecher Stowe - 1319
Harriet Beecher Stowe's 19th-century novel Uncle Tom's Cabin provides incredible insight into the injustice of slavery practiced throughout America during the Civil War. The story follows two plots, that of a runaway slave fleeing for freedom in Canada, and that of a loyal black servant sold and traded in the merciless slave markets of the South. However, it's not just the side plots that provide a sense of contrast to the story. By describing slavery opposing Christian values and morals, the distinction between racism in the North and racism in the South of the United States, as well as the differences in values and the cynicism of the characters, the contrast gives the book an indisputable power to explore the social morality of the United States. the era. The contrast is especially used in Uncle Tom's Cabin to illustrate the parallel between slavery and Christian values. The role of religion demonstrates a source of hope for the slaves and brings an ethical struggle to the theme of the story. Faith is portrayed for black people as their only possession, their only hope in a country that so easily accepts their anguish. The representation of the Negro faith is through the protagonist Uncle Tom, an ethical man who surrenders, after having the opportunity to escape, so that his profit can help his master. Always trusting in the Lord, he is assured that he will always be protected. “There will be the same God there, Chloe, as here.” (Stowe, 95) His reluctance to renounce his religion ultimately led to his persecution and death, but his piety remained an inspiration to other slaves. In contrast, for Caucasian Americans, their religion and Christian values are at the root of their struggle to overcome social norms that oppose their beliefs. Miss Ophelia's character develops considerably throughout her role in the story, eventually deciding to adopt a black child and raise him Christian. opportunities and setbacks of slavery; » (288) Faith and religion provide compelling opposition to the difficulties of slavery throughout the book. Additionally, the representation of racial notions in history varies considerably between the Northern and Southern states. The greatest contrast in region and background is the direction of the parallel plots. It is noted that while Eliza's flight takes her north to Canada and freedom, Uncle Tom's trade takes her further south, for even more oppression on her people...