Uncle Toms Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe - Misery of Slavery Exposed :: Uncle Toms Cabin

Misery of Slavery Exposed in Uncle Toms Cabin Harriet Beacher Stowes Uncle Toms Cabin addresses the issue of slavery in close conformism with the style of Frederick Douglas narrative. A theme that Stowe impresses strongly upon the reader is the degenerative effects of slavery upon both the slave and the master. Frequently in the invigorated the issue is raised . Even Mrs. Shelby recognizes the depravity and admits that slavery, is a bitter, bitter, most accursed thing- a curse to the master and a curse to the slave(45). The injustices of slavery are frequently identify in the novel but, of course, the practice is continued. Many of those involved in holding slaves are sensitive to the problem. Mr. Shelby, for instance, is not contented by the idea but enjoys the benefits kayoed of what he deems necessity. The inherent problem of slavery is again stated when John Van Trompe is being described. His worn appearance is attributed to the ,workings of a system equally bad for oppres sor and oppressed,(105). The novel also dexterously demonstrates the absurdities and contradictions of slavery. For instance, Mr. Shelbys actions are strongly contradictory to his statements. He believes himself to be a good Christian man with a true(a) respect for his slaves. Yet the fact that he holds slaves opposes all that he says and although his treatment of slaves is better than most masters, he still is not respectful of them. For example, in the premiere chapter when Shelby and Haley are discussing the ensuing trade, Harry enters the room and Shelby has him dance around like a clown and then tosses raisins at him. Also, Mr. Harris, a slave owner, in defence mechanism of his relocating George asserts that, its a free country sir the mans mine,(24). It is also ironic that after George invents a machine to clean hemp the employer congratulates not George, but Georges master for owning such a fine slave. Another example that effectively illustrates the strong contradictions and absurdities of slavery and slave owners is the philosophy of Haley concerning the proper treatment of slaves. Haley, whose practice is to buy and sell people asserts that, its ever so best to do the humane thing,(16) and that it is good to have a conscience, just a little, you know, to swear by,(13). Another topic often addressed in the novel is exclusion of blacks in the law and the injustice of the entire condition.