Twelve Years a Slave: Flashcards

Overview of Solomon Northup's Life

• Solomon Northup was born free in July 1808 in New York, the son of an emancipated slave.
• He lived a varied life as a laborer, farmer, and skilled violinist, marrying Anne Hampton and raising three children.
• In 1841, Northup was kidnapped by two con men under the pretense of a job offer and sold into slavery.

Experiences of Captivity

• Northup was initially imprisoned by James H. Burch in Washington, D.C., where he endured brutal treatment.
• He was sold to William Ford, a relatively kind owner, but later transferred to the cruel carpenter John M. Tibeats, and then to Edwin Epps.

Struggles and Resistance

• Northup's ten years under Epps involved severe abuse, with Epps regularly whipping slaves.
• The story highlights the emotional devastation endured by slaves, illustrated by the tragic fate of Patsey, who suffered physical and sexual abuse.
• Northup maintained hope throughout, resisting despair and desiring freedom.

Freedom and Legacy

• After ten years of slavery, Northup was rescued in 1853 through the efforts of his Northern friends and abolitionist Mr. Bass.
• His memoir, "12 Years a Slave," published in 1853, serves as a historical document against slavery, providing detailed accounts of his life and experiences.

Major Themes

• Highlights the moral decay of slavery, emphasizing the inherent injustice and cruelty involved.
• Explores the themes of freedom, dignity, and the human cost of slavery, affecting both slaves and masters.

Symbols in the Narrative

• Chains symbolize the oppression of slavery; the whip represents violence used to maintain control.
• The Bible reflects the hypocrisy of slave owners who used religious justification for their actions.
• Water signifies both life and escape, while the swamp represents the dangers and challenges faced by the enslaved.

Notable Characters

• Edwin Epps: Northup's cruel master, noted for his violent tendencies and moral depravity.
• William Ford: Kind master who treated Northup fairly but ultimately had to sell him due to financial troubles.
• Patsey: A tragic character symbolizing the brutal reality of slavery, suffering frequent abuse and manipulation by both Epps and his wife.

Historical Significance

• The memoir has provided crucial evidence against the institution of slavery and has retained its relevance over 150 years.
• Northup's recounting of verified experiences challenges skeptics and acts as a historical testament to the realities of slavery.

Editor's Role

• David Wilson, the editor, played a vital role in authenticating Northup’s story, lending credibility and challenging accusations of fabrication.
• His preface sets the tone for the memoir and establishes it as a serious historical document, promoting awareness of the injustices of slavery.

Conclusion

• Northup's "12 Years a Slave" serves not only as a personal narrative but also as a profound indictment of the institution of slavery, enlightening future generations about the costs of chattel bondage and the resilience of the human spirit.### Solomon Northup's Intent and Background
• Northup aims to provide a truthful account of his life experiences without exaggeration.
• Solomon was born free in July 1808, in Minerva, New York, to Mintus, who was emancipated after serving the Northup family.
• Northup worked as a farmer with his father until Mintus's death in 1829; he later married Anne Hampton and settled in Saratoga Springs, New York.
• Anne became a cook while Solomon worked various jobs and was known for his violin skills, as they built a life together with a family.

Function of Slave Narratives

• Slave narratives served as potent political tools aimed at garnering support for the abolitionist movement.
• They needed to establish empathy and credibility to effectively influence public opinion against slavery.
• Northup's Chapter 1 evokes empathy through his heartfelt memories of family life, making him relatable to readers.

Establishing Credibility

• Northup strengthens the truthfulness of his narrative by including precise details about his life and experiences.
• He references specific places such as the Champlain Canal and Lake Champlain, and names individuals like William Van Nortwick, enhancing credibility.
• By including exact dates related to his activities, Northup allows readers to verify details, establishing trust in his account.