Stowe Prompt

Note: my text references are based of page numbers form the actual novel not the online pdf format.

Uncle Tom's Cabin does seem somewhat of a controversial text, especially based of the perameters we've discussed about 19th century children's literature. I feel it follows some theories while breaking others. Of course, since the book was published in 1852 there will be traces of "typical" format styles related to the 1800's, but Stowe twisted the ideals most peole deemed normal.

On one hand, the novel is didactic in every sense. The overtone of Christianity is evident throughout the book, "Well; but is it true that they have been passing a law forbidding people to give meat and drink to those poor coloured folks that come along? I heard they were talking of some such law, but I didn't think any Christian legislature would pass it!" (p. 74). Even faced with the horror of becoming seperated from his family and leaving the only place he has known as home, Tom insists on remaining purly rooted in his faith, "I'm in the Lord's hands' said Tom; 'nothin' can go no furder than He let's it; and thar's one thing I can thank Him for. It's me that;s sold and going down, and not you nur the chil'en. Here you're safe; what comes will come only on me; and the Lord, He'll help me -I know He will." (p. 88).

The teaching a lesson to the future leaders of America was of grave importance. Authors used the novels to preach to the children. They were taught religion, morality, and even gender roles, "But Lor! who'll ever mend for ye?' and Aunt Chloe, again overcome, laid her head on the box side, and sobbed. 'To think on't! no crittur to do for ye, sick or well! I don't railly think I ought ter be good now!" (p. 91). The thought that Uncle Tom will not have anyone to care for him makes his wife sick. And it's not the idea that there is no one who will help him, it's the idea that it will not be her. Her natural nurturing emotions come into overdrive and she hurts for her husbands wellbeing.

Another aspect of the text that follows the theories of 19th century literature is looking toward the children to uphold a sound and just future, " Oh, Mas'r George, you has everything - larnin', priviledges, readin', writin' - and you'll grow up to be a great, learned, good man, and all the people on the place and your mother and father'll be so proud on ye!" (p. 95).

On the other hand, even though the novel discusses in great lengths the ideals and theories of being a Christian, the character practice quite the opposite. This text which is based on slavery, absolutely contridictes the moral standards of Christians, " 'Don't quote Bible at me that way, Mr. Wilson,' said George, with a flashing eye, 'don't! for my wife is a Christian, and I mean to be, if ever I get to where I can; but to quote Bible to a fellow in my circumstances is enough to make him give it up altogether. I appeal to God Almighty; I'm willing to go with the case to Him, and ask Him if I do wrong to seek my freedom.'" (p. 103).