Heroic Figures in Uncle Tom's Cabin and Oroonoko

In the exploration of heroic figures within the literary realms of Harriet Beecher Stowe's Uncle Tom's Cabin and Aphra Behn's Oroonoko, we encounter two distinct yet similarly motivated portrayals of black protagonists. Both authors grapple with the prevailing societal attitudes toward race in their respective centuries, seeking to reshape perceptions of black individuals by depicting their heroes in ways that resonate with a broader audience. Through the characterizations of Uncle Tom and Oroonoko, Stowe and Behn challenge the stereotypes of their time, aiming to evoke sympathy and moral reflection among their readers.

The Character of Uncle Tom

In Uncle Tom's Cabin, written on the brink of the American Civil War, Stowe constructs Uncle Tom as a paragon of virtue, embodying Christian values and moral righteousness. By portraying Tom not as a typical slave, but rather as a man of deep faith and integrity, Stowe crafts a character who transcends the limitations imposed by his status. This strategy is essential for reaching an audience that includes Southern plantation owners, who might otherwise reject the narrative as mere abolitionist propaganda. Uncle Tom's unwavering faith and adherence to a "white moral code" serve to bridge the gap between races, appealing to the sensibilities of both Northerners and Southerners alike.

The Heroism of Oroonoko

Similarly, in Oroonoko, Behn constructs her titular character as a noble and heroic figure, distinguishing him from the common perception of black individuals in the 17th century. Oroonoko is described with regal qualities, possessing a beauty that sets him apart from his peers, as evidenced by Behn's assertion that he has "a beauty so transcending all those of his gloomy race" (2174). By emphasizing Oroonoko's European and royal attributes, Behn seeks to elevate his status in the eyes of a predominantly white audience, thereby fostering sympathy for his plight as a slave.

Strategies of Characterization

Both authors employ specific strategies to cultivate their protagonists' heroism:

• Physical Descriptions: Behn uses detailed physical descriptions to highlight Oroonoko's superiority, contrasting his features with those typically associated with his race. Stowe similarly emphasizes Uncle Tom's moral and spiritual virtues.
• Relatable Qualities: Both characters possess traits that are deemed admirable by European standards, such as honor, bravery, and integrity.
• Sympathetic Narration: The narrative styles of both authors invite readers to empathize with their protagonists, drawing on shared values to foster emotional connections.

Contrasting Perspectives on Race

Behn's work is particularly notable for its self-awareness and conscious engagement with her audience. By positioning herself as a character within the narrative, she navigates the complex dynamics of race and colonialism. She describes Oroonoko's people in a manner that reflects the prevailing attitudes of her time, yet simultaneously asserts Oroonoko's superiority: "more civilized, according to the European mode" (2189). This juxtaposition serves to challenge the reader's preconceived notions of race while also appealing to their cultural biases.

The Impact of Heroic Figures

The emotional weight of Uncle Tom's fate at the novel's conclusion leaves readers grappling with their own moral compasses. Stowe's portrayal of Tom as a virtuous, self-sacrificing figure elicits a profound sense of loss, compelling readers to reflect on the broader implications of slavery. In a similar vein, Behn's depiction of Oroonoko as a tragic hero serves to critique the inhumanity of the slave trade, highlighting the moral contradictions inherent in colonialism.

Ultimately, both Stowe and Behn succeed in their endeavors to reshape public perceptions of black individuals through their heroic figures. By crafting characters who embody qualities that align with European ideals, they invite their audiences to empathize with the struggles of their protagonists. While the authors' approaches differ in style and context, their shared goal of advocating for racial equality and challenging societal norms remains a powerful testament to the enduring impact of literature.

Conclusion

The heroic figures of Uncle Tom and Oroonoko exemplify the complex interplay of race, morality, and societal expectations in literature. Through their nuanced portrayals, Stowe and Behn not only challenge the stereotypes of their time but also pave the way for future discussions on race and identity. By appealing to the shared values of their audiences, they elevate their characters beyond the confines of their circumstances, fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience.

References:

• Behn, Aphra. Oroonoko. Norton Critical Editions, 1996.
• Stowe, Harriet Beecher. Uncle Tom's Cabin. Houghton Mifflin, 2003.