Stereotypes in "Uncle Tom's Cabin"

Paper Summary:

This paper examines some of the stereotypes found in "Uncle Tom's Cabin", with particular focus on the main character of Uncle Tom. The paper argues that the character of Uncle Tom is represented as a stereotype of an old, suffering and obedient servant, faithful to his white masters no matter what, but that there is also a philosophy of resistance in the passivity that he exudes. Furthermore, this paper argues that it is in the depiction of African-American women that many stereotypes can be found. Finally, this paper attempts to answer the following question: do the negative aspects of this novel outweigh its moral message?

From the Paper:

"Uncle Tom's Cabin actually consists of two stories told in parallel. It begins with a financial crisis of the Shelby family whom are forced to sell some of their slaves. Eliza, the slave who is a maid in the house overhears this plan, which includes the sale of her child, and escapes with her husband and young son. We follow their long and dangerous escape route that eventually leads them to Canada. Uncle Tom, although he has a family on the plantation, does actually get sold to a family in New Orleans. He is very pious and accepting and soon becomes very faithful to his new owner much like he was to the one who sold him. The family is eventually won over by Uncle Tom and his calm, assuming manner, that both the father and the daughter become ardent supporters of abolishment. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• 1. Beecher Stowe, Harriet Uncle Tom's Cabin. New York: Bantam Classics, 1982

More papers on Stereotypes in "Uncle Tom's Cabin":

• Analytical Essay # 134163 : "Racism in Beecher Stowe's "Uncle Tom's Cabin"
• Book Review # 112416 : "Uncle Tom's Cabin"
• Analytical Essay # 7677 : "Uncle Tom's Cabin" by Harriet Beecher Stowe"

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