"Property" by Valerie Martin

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the main character in Valerie Martin's book, "Property" and describes her as tough, cruel, unromantic, bitter and not very likable. The paper analyzes the author's use of metaphor, effective language, narrative, symbolism, lyrical prose and diction. The paper recommends this book as a work well written, compelling and one that offers a good look at the history of slavery.

From the Paper:

"The main character is married to a sugar cane planter who she despises. Her "servant," Sarah, comes to the marriage as a "gift," and ends up as a mistress to Manon's husband. She has at least one child by him, as well. Manon is tough, unromantic, bitter, and not very likable. She is not the least bit concerned about her slaves or their welfare, and she sees the world effectively in black and white, with little fluff or color. In the end, she becomes cruel and indifferent, determined to keep Sarah a slave instead of allowing her freedom. She proves that she has no idea of what the blacks face as slaves, and that she does not care. The ending of the novel proves this, and proves her inhumanity and callousness, as well. In the end, she is no better than her husband, who used her and treated her as property. She is just the same, and just as unfeeling and empty."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Martin, Valerie. Property. New York: Nan A. Talese, 2003.

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