Gothic Elements in The Portrayal of Simon Legree in Uncle Tom's Cabin

Edgar Allan Poe's introduction in "The Fall of the House of Usher" encapsulates the essence of gothic literature with its depiction of a "dull, dark, and soundless day" that sets a melancholic tone. Harriet Beecher Stowe, in "Uncle Tom's Cabin," similarly employs gothic imagery to convey the themes of cruelty and despair through the character of Simon Legree. This essay explores the gothic elements in the portrayal of Simon Legree, illustrating how Stowe's descriptions evoke feelings of disorder, decay, and darkness.

The Beastly Nature of Simon Legree

Upon first encountering Simon Legree, Stowe presents him as a monstrous figure. She describes him as "short, broad, and muscular" with a "bullet head," and "shaggy" hair, presenting an image more akin to a beast than a human (Stowe 334). This beastly portrayal aligns with Legree's character as a cruel and corrupt slave master. As the narrative progresses, the reader witnesses how Legree embodies the very essence of the gothic, marked by his moral decay and depravity.

Imagery of the Red River

Stowe further immerses the reader in gothic imagery through her description of a "red, muddy, turbid current" as Legree transports his newly purchased slaves along the Red River (Stowe 342). The color red symbolizes the impending doom that these slaves will face under Legree's oppressive regime. This imagery draws a parallel to Dante Alighieri's "Inferno," where a river of blood surrounds the seventh circle, a place reserved for violent sinners. By invoking such imagery, Stowe suggests that Legree is a violent sinner, with the river symbolizing the blood of slaves who have perished due to the cruelty of their masters.

The Dark Places of the Earth

As the narrative unfolds, Stowe connects gothic imagery directly to the institution of slavery. She begins a chapter with the quote, "The dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty" (Stowe 343). This statement underscores the prevalence of cruelty within American plantations run by slave owners like Legree. The "habitations of cruelty" evoke a sense of dread, establishing a direct link between darkness and the gothic elements in the novel. Stowe describes the road leading to Legree's plantation as "winding through dreary pine barrens, where the wind whispered mournfully" (Stowe 343), creating an eerie atmosphere reminiscent of gothic works like Poe's and Alighieri's.

Disorder and Decay in the Landscape

Upon arriving at Legree's plantation, Stowe illustrates a scene of neglect and decay. The once-smooth lawn is now overrun with "frowsy tangled grass" and "broken pails" (Stowe 345). This disarray not only reflects the physical state of the plantation but also symbolizes the moral decay inherent in Legree's character. The depiction of a once-thriving garden now consumed by weeds signifies the decline that has occurred since Legree's takeover, enhancing the gothic atmosphere of despair.

Inside Legree's Home

Stowe's portrayal of Legree's home further emphasizes themes of disorder and decay. The interior is described as having "mouldering, torn and discolored" wallpaper, suggesting a once-elegant space now in ruin (Stowe 370). The "sickening, unwholesome smell" pervading the plantation evokes associations with death and decay, reinforcing the gothic theme (Stowe 370). Stowe's use of adjectives such as "damp" and "chilly" contributes to a sense of unease, creating an environment that feels alive with despair.

The Haunting Presence of the Past

Legree's character is further haunted by the ghost of a deceased slave. Stowe writes about the "fearful, unearthly screams" that Legree cannot escape, illustrating his psychological torment (Stowe 406). This haunting presence parallels the supernatural elements common in gothic literature. Cassy, another character, uses ghostly imagery to manipulate Legree's fears, heightening the tension and fear associated with his character. Such elements resonate with the traditions of gothic literature, where haunted characters often face their own psychological demons.

Comparison of Gothic Elements in Literature

In comparing the gothic elements present in "Uncle Tom's Cabin" and other gothic works, one can observe recurring themes of decay, darkness, and psychological torment. The following table illustrates these connections:

Conclusion

Through her vivid descriptions and gothic imagery, Harriet Beecher Stowe effectively portrays Simon Legree as a representation of the cruelty of slavery. The themes of disorder, decay, and psychological torment are intricately woven into the narrative, reflecting the gothic tradition. By employing these elements, Stowe casts a shadow over the institution of slavery, inviting readers to confront the darkness within society.

References:

• Stowe, Harriet Beecher. Uncle Tom's Cabin. Boston: John P. Jewett & Company, 1852.
• Poe, Edgar Allan. The Fall of the House of Usher. New York: Wiley & Putnam, 1839.
• Alighieri, Dante. Inferno. Translated by Robert Pinsky. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 1994.