Uncle Tom's Cabin

Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stow is a novel that addresses the controversial issues of slavery, having an awe-inspiring impact on American culture. Not only does it provide the reader with a feminist view on the role of women, but still raises concern of racism in today's society. It has also has been the subject of constant criticism being banned from many schools, though portraying the smaller more personal tragedies caused by the slavery industry. By showing the harm that had been done to individuals the author emphasizes the belief that slaves are not property but human beings.

The novel takes place in the South during the pre-Civil War, as Harriet Beecher Stow uses the characters to accentuate how life was like during this time period. As the main character and clearly a Christ-like figure, Uncle Tom is determined to better himself not only as an individual, but also as a better Christian. Though he may seem submissive throughout the book, his love for all people is felt by everyone, including the courageous and young women, Eliza. After learning that that her five-year old son had been sold to another salve owner she is determined to escape, barely making it to Canada after almost being captured. During her frightful experience she is reunited with her husband, highlighting her fierce love for her family. Not only does she serve as an example of how slavery can both separate and destroy a family, but proves the dangers that one must endure in order to escape the cause of these horrors. Seen as one of the most infamous character in American literature, Simon Legree is what many envision when thinking of Southern slave owners. He is an alcoholic who forces his workers into long hours of labor, in addition to beating them, and providing them with no more than dirty clothes, spoiled food, and a poor excuse for a home.

Uncle Tom's Cabin is a novel written in order to depict the human cruelty of slavery. Though many of his owners are not characterized as cruel masters, he is sold four times in order to pay off debts which can no longer be avoided. Because he is loyal to all of his masters, he is often one of the most liked and trusted slaves, for his firm belief in the Bible will not allow him to rebel. It is because of this determination that will bring him to the end of his life, as he also suffered and died for his beliefs, once again bringing about Christ-like imagery. After being bought by the notorious Simon