Main Themes in "The Incidents in The Life of a Slave Girl" by Harriet Jacobs

Introduction

As America began to grow, the United States soon became known as the land of freedom and opportunity. While this seems like an admirable reputation, a significant event that propelled this perception was the Civil War, ironically caused by the lack of freedom and opportunity. This conflict created a great division within the young nation, with differing views and ideas on how the government should address the growing problem of slavery. This era is effectively represented by Harriet Jacobs' ability to inform the reader and provide perspective on the struggles of being a slave during the Civil War era in her novel, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Harriet Jacobs’ story accurately represents the time period it was written in by highlighting the treatment of women, the effects of the Fugitive Slave Act, and the prevalence of white supremacy in the 1800s.

Main Themes in "The Incidents in The Life of a Slave Girl" by Harriet Jacobs

Treatment of African American Women

One example is the way that African American women were often treated during this period. Jacobs writes about how no slave girl will 'learn to tremble when she hears her Master's footfall. She will be compelled to realize that she is no longer a child' (Jacobs, 1861, p. 27). This quote connects to the Civil War era because it illustrates how quickly a young woman was forced to mature. It also reveals the exposure many had to the inappropriate behaviors of slave owners. Jacobs further demonstrates how women were viewed as having no value and were often whipped, raped, or even killed unless they consistently benefited their owner. This brutal treatment underscores the systemic dehumanization faced by enslaved women and highlights the pervasive gender-based violence of the time.

Effects of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850

Another example is how Jacobs illustrates the effects of the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. In the book, Linda states that she 'had but one hesitation, and that was my feeling of insecurity in New York now greatly increased by the passage of the Fugitive Slave Law' (Jacobs, 1861, p. 89). Initially, Linda, the main protagonist, felt relatively secure walking around, even on her own. However, after the law was introduced, she became vigilant and constantly watched her back. This law caused widespread fear for safety, regardless of whether individuals were free or enslaved, as Linda became more cautious due to her previous owner, Dr. Flint, actively seeking her. The Fugitive Slave Act was pivotal in the book as it heightened Linda's apprehension and played a crucial role in escalating tensions between the North and the South, serving as a major trigger for the Civil War.

Impact of White Supremacy

Furthermore, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl emphasizes the white supremacy that had a major impact on society and its operation. Whites often viewed themselves as a superior race, belittling Native Americans and African-Americans. Jacobs frequently references the rampant racism of the 1800s. In both history and in the book, whites treated people of color terribly, often using them as if they were inhuman animals. A slave owner in the book asserts to his slave, 'Do you know that I have the right to do as I like with you, -that I can kill you, if I please?' (Jacobs, 1861, p. 45). This statement exemplifies how most slave owners felt superior, perceiving slaves as nothing more than disposable property. This ingrained belief in racial hierarchy had far-reaching consequences, perpetuating systemic oppression and violence against African Americans.

Conclusion

Taking readers through the life of a slave girl, Jacobs was able to portray the perspective of a young woman who was often physically, mentally, and sexually abused. Jacobs successfully depicted the treatment of women, the effects of the Fugitive Slave Act, and the pervasive white supremacy during the Civil War era in her book, Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. By shedding light on these critical issues, Jacobs' narrative continues to resonate, offering invaluable insight into the complexities of this tumultuous period in American history.

References

• Jacobs, H. A. (1861). Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Thayer & Eldridge.