Introduction: “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
“The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt first appeared in print in 1899 and later it appeared in Chesnutt’s collection, The Wife of His Youth and Other Stories of the Color Line. Employing satire and humor as its narrative tools, the story confronts the harsh realities of American slavery and the ingrained prejudices of the antebellum South. It delves into complex themes such as the struggle for identity, the yearning for freedom, and the unexpected ways in which power dynamics can be challenged within the master-slave relationship.
Main Events in “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
Part-I
1. The Inspiration from a Trial:
- Dick Owens attends the trial of a man who attempted to help a slave to freedom but was convicted of slave-stealing. Despite the legal consequences, Owens sympathizes with the man’s motives.
2. Indolence and Privilege:
- Owens is described as intelligent, handsome, and born into wealth and privilege. However, he is also characterized as extremely indolent, lacking ambition, and not making remarkable progress in his legal studies despite access to resources.
3. Charity Lomax’s Influence:
- Charity Lomax, a woman Owens is courting, challenges him to prove himself by doing something meaningful. She expresses admiration for those who take risks for the sake of others, contrasting them with Owens’ perceived laziness.
4. Owens’ Proposal and Response:
- Owens suggests running off one of his father’s slaves to Canada as a test of his capability and worthiness for Charity’s love. Charity initially dismisses the idea as absurd and impractical.
5. Conditional Love and Challenge:
- Charity sets a challenge for Owens: if he can prove his worthiness by doing something meaningful during her absence, she will reconsider her feelings for him. This sets the stage for Owens’ attempt to run off a slave despite the risks and legal consequences involved.
Part-II
1. Dick’s Proposal to Tom:
- Dick offers Tom, his personal attendant, the opportunity to accompany him on a trip North. Tom, despite his desire to make the trip, remains cautious and pragmatic in his response, hinting at his willingness to escape if given the chance.
2. Colonel Owens’ Concerns and Suggestions:
- Dick discusses his plan with his father, mentioning his intention to travel North. The Colonel expresses concern about the activities of abolitionists and advises Dick to keep an eye out for their actions while in the North.
3. Selection of a Travel Companion:
- Dick proposes taking Tom with him on the trip, but the Colonel immediately dismisses the idea due to suspicions about Tom’s potential sympathies with abolitionists. Instead, the Colonel suggests Grandison, a trusted servant, as a suitable travel companion for Dick.
4. The Colonel’s Views on Slavery:
- The Colonel asserts his paternalistic attitude toward his slaves, viewing them as grateful and well-cared-for compared to free black individuals. He emphasizes the dangers posed by abolitionists and portrays the South as a haven compared to the harsh conditions in Canada.
5. Assurance of Loyalty and Reward:
- The Colonel assures Grandison of his protection and warns him against the influence of abolitionists. He promises rewards and protection for loyalty, reinforcing the paternalistic dynamic between master and slave. Grandison expresses gratitude and loyalty to the Colonel, reinforcing the hierarchical relationship.
Part-III
1. Dick’s Strategy for Grandison’s Freedom:
- Dick refrains from directly informing Grandison of his plan to set him free, as it might lead to legal repercussions for himself. Instead, he hopes that Grandison will be influenced by the example and arguments of abolitionists encountered during their trip to the North.
2. Unsuccessful Attempts to Influence Grandison:
- Despite Dick’s efforts to expose Grandison to abolitionist sentiments and provide opportunities for escape, Grandison remains loyal and obedient. Dick’s frustration grows as Grandison consistently chooses to remain by his side, refusing to take advantage of opportunities for freedom.
3. Radical Measures Considered by Dick:
- As more subtle approaches fail, Dick considers radical measures to ensure Grandison’s freedom. He contemplates leaving Grandison in Canada, where he would be legally free, but struggles to find a suitable opportunity to do so without raising suspicion.
4. Failed Attempt at Freedom:
- Dick tries to leave Grandison alone near Niagara Falls, hoping he will choose to remain in Canada. However, Grandison’s loyalty prevails, as he anxiously awaits his master’s return, even in the face of the tempting prospect of freedom.
5. Dick’s Resignation and Determination:
- Despite his frustrations, Dick ultimately accepts Grandison’s loyalty and resigns himself to the fact that he cannot force Grandison to be free. He acknowledges his own shortcomings and vows to ensure Grandison’s freedom, even if it means being the instrument of his deliverance.
Part-IV
1. Grandison’s Unexpected Return:
- Grandison miraculously returns home, exhausted and ragged, after being kidnapped by abolitionists and enduring incredible hardships in Canada. The colonel, initially angry at Grandison’s disappearance, is ultimately relieved and delighted by his return.
2. Colonels’s Perspective on the Abolitionists:
- The colonel attributes Grandison’s disappearance to the machinations of abolitionists, whom he views as unscrupulous and fanatical. He believes they kidnapped Grandison in an attempt to discredit Southern slaveholders.
3. Dick’s Skepticism:
- Dick expresses skepticism about the kidnapping story, suggesting there may be a more plausible explanation for Grandison’s absence. However, he refrains from voicing his doubts too strongly in the face of his father’s conviction.
4. Grandison’s Heroic Return:
- Grandison’s return is celebrated, and he is treated as a hero. The colonel lavishes attention and praise upon him, eager to showcase his loyalty and resilience to visitors.
5. Mass Escape and Pursuit:
- Grandison’s disappearance is not an isolated incident; he escapes along with his entire family and several other enslaved individuals from the plantation. The colonel and his allies launch an extensive search and chase, but the fugitives manage to evade capture, ultimately reaching freedom in Canada via the underground railroad.
6. Final Defiance and Closure:
- The colonel witnesses the fugitives escaping on a steamboat headed for Canada, and despite his impotent rage, he can do nothing to stop them. The incident marks the end of the pursuit and the loss of valuable property, signaling a definitive victory for the fleeing slaves and a final defiance against the institution of slavery.
Literary Devices in “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
| Literary Device | Example from Story | Explanation |
| Allusion | Reference to Scott’s novels | Chesnutt alludes to the works of Sir Walter Scott to create a sense of familiarity and literary depth. |
| Characterization | Description of Dick Owens as reckless | Chesnutt characterizes Dick Owens by highlighting his reckless behavior, which drives the plot forward. |
| Conflict | The tension between Dick and Grandison | Conflict arises between Dick and Grandison due to their opposing desires and actions. |
| Foreshadowing | Grandison’s reluctance to leave Dick | Grandison’s reluctance foreshadows his eventual decision to stay loyal to Dick despite opportunities. |
| Hyperbole | “You could have knocked me down with a feather.” | Chesnutt uses exaggeration for emphasis, indicating the colonel’s surprise at encountering Grandison. |
| Imagery | Description of Niagara Falls | Chesnutt uses vivid imagery to evoke the grandeur and power of Niagara Falls, enhancing the setting. |
| Irony | Dick’s failed attempts to free Grandison | The irony lies in Dick’s efforts to free Grandison, which ultimately result in reinforcing his loyalty. |
| Metaphor | “Faithfulness was like a rock on which he leaned.” | Chesnutt compares Grandison’s faithfulness to a rock, emphasizing its stability and reliability. |
| Motif | The pursuit of freedom | The motif of freedom recurs throughout the story, driving the actions of both Grandison and Dick. |
| Personification | “The desperation of those fanatics knew no bounds.” | Chesnutt personifies desperation, attributing human qualities to an abstract concept. |
| Plot Twist | Grandison’s return after being kidnapped | The unexpected return of Grandison adds a twist to the plot, shifting the narrative in a new direction. |
| Repetition | Grandison’s repeated loyalty to Dick | Chesnutt employs repetition to emphasize Grandison’s unwavering loyalty to Dick throughout the story. |
| Satire | Depiction of abolitionists’ actions | Chesnutt satirizes abolitionists by portraying their actions as misguided and hypocritical. |
| Setting | New York, Boston, and Niagara Falls | The settings provide context and atmosphere, influencing the characters’ actions and interactions. |
| Simile | “His fame spread throughout the county, like wildfire.” | Chesnutt uses a simile to illustrate the rapid spread of Grandison’s fame among the local community. |
| Symbolism | Grandison’s escape to Canada symbolizing freedom | Grandison’s escape to Canada symbolizes freedom from slavery and the pursuit of liberty. |
| Theme | Loyalty and betrayal | The story explores themes of loyalty and betrayal through the relationships between characters. |
| Tone | Satirical and ironic | Chesnutt’s tone is satirical and ironic, conveying a critical perspective on social issues and norms. |
| Understatement | “The colonel shook his fist impotently.” | Chesnutt uses understatement to downplay the colonel’s frustration and powerlessness in the situation. |
| Verbal Irony | “It’s as good as one of Scott’s novels!” | The statement is verbally ironic, as the colonel compares Grandison’s story to a literary |
Characterization in “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
I. Major Characters
Dick Owens
- Description: Young, intelligent, handsome, and amiable, but extremely indolent. He is the heir presumptive to a large estate and lacks ambition.
- Actions: Attends the trial of a slave-stealer, where he becomes inspired to do something heroic to win the affection of Charity Lomax.
- Example: Initiates a plan to run off one of his father’s slaves to Canada to prove his worth to Charity.
Charity Lomax
- Description: Strong-willed, compassionate, and principled. She is a driving force behind Dick’s actions, challenging him to prove his worth through heroic deeds.
- Actions: Encourages Dick to do something significant to demonstrate his qualities as a man.
- Example: Expresses admiration for the slave-stealer’s attempted act of heroism and challenges Dick to do something similar.
Colonel Owens
- Description: Wealthy, paternalistic, and deeply entrenched in Southern values. He values his social status and possessions, including his slaves, above all else.
- Actions: Asserts control over his son’s actions and dictates the course of events regarding the slaves on his plantation.
- Example: Decides to send Grandison with Dick on his trip North, viewing it as an opportunity to strengthen the bond between master and servant.
II. Minor Characters
Tom
- Description: Dick’s personal attendant, a bright young mulatto with aspirations of freedom.
- Actions: Initially hesitant to express his desire for freedom but shows interest when presented with the opportunity to travel North.
- Example: Agrees to accompany Dick on his trip under the guise of loyalty, but secretly harbors thoughts of escape.
Grandison
- Description: A loyal and devoted servant on Colonel Owens’ plantation, seemingly content with his position as a slave.
- Actions: Follows his master’s orders dutifully, demonstrating loyalty and obedience.
- Example: Accompanies Dick on his trip North, despite being targeted by abolitionists, and remains faithful to his master’s wishes, even when given the chance for freedom.
Abolitionists
- Description: Long-haired, sharp-featured individuals dedicated to the cause of freeing slaves.
- Actions: Attempt to persuade Grandison to run away and join the abolitionist movement.
- Example: Engage Grandison in conversation and try to convince him to escape from his master’s control.
Clergyman
- Description: A young white man in clerical garb who interacts with Grandison.
- Actions: Possibly sympathetic to the abolitionist cause, engages in conversation with Grandison.
- Example: Grandison seeks refuge with his master when approached by the clergyman, indicating discomfort with discussions about freedom.
Major Themes in “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
- Complexities of Race and Identity: Chesnutt’s story delves into the intricacies of racial identity, particularly through the character of Grandison. Grandison strategically navigates between the roles of a subservient slave and a cunning individual seeking freedom. For instance, he maintains the facade of loyalty to his master while secretly plotting his escape to freedom, showcasing the complexity of racial identity and the different masks individuals may wear in society.
- Pursuit of Freedom: A central theme in the story is the relentless pursuit of freedom, as Grandison courageously seeks to break free from the shackles of slavery. Despite the risks and challenges he faces, Grandison remains determined to secure his liberty. His eventual success in outsmarting his master and escaping to freedom highlights the resilience and perseverance of those seeking liberation from oppression.
- Manipulation of Power Dynamics: Chesnutt explores the manipulation of power dynamics, particularly through the character of Dick Owens. As a slave owner, Dick attempts to exert control over Grandison for his own benefit. However, it is ultimately Grandison who holds the power to determine his own fate. Through Grandison’s clever tactics and strategic maneuvering, he subverts the power dynamics imposed upon him by his master, showcasing the inherent instability of hierarchical power structures.
- Moral Ambiguity of Human Nature: The story also delves into the moral ambiguity inherent in human nature, as characters grapple with conflicting motivations and values. Dick Owens’ duplicitous actions exemplify this theme, as he presents himself as both a benefactor of freedom and a manipulative oppressor. Despite his outward facade of benevolence, Dick’s true intentions are driven by self-interest and a desire to maintain control. This moral complexity underscores the inherent tension between individual ambition and ethical responsibility in a society characterized by systemic oppression and inequality.
Writing Style in “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
1. Narration Style
- Objective Narration: The story is narrated from an objective standpoint, providing a straightforward account of events without delving into characters’ internal thoughts or emotions.
- Example: The narrator describes characters’ actions and dialogues without offering subjective interpretations, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions about the characters’ motivations.
2. Language and Dialogue
- Southern Dialect: Chesnutt incorporates Southern dialect and colloquialisms to authentically portray the characters and setting.
- Example: “Yas, marster,” “Y-a-s, marster,” and “I ‘s seen some of ’em” reflect the dialect spoken by characters like Grandison.
- Formal and Informal Dialogue: The dialogue varies between formal exchanges, particularly between characters of higher social status, and informal conversations that reveal the characters’ personalities.
- Example: The conversation between Dick and his father is formal and respectful, while Dick’s interactions with Charity Lomax are more casual and playful.
3. Use of Irony
- Situational Irony: Chesnutt employs situational irony to highlight the contrasts between characters’ expectations and outcomes.
- Example: Despite Dick’s attempts to encourage Grandison to seek freedom, Grandison remains loyal to his master, frustrating Dick’s efforts to prove his worth to Charity Lomax.
4. Themes and Social Commentary
- Exploration of Slavery and Freedom: Chesnutt uses the story to explore themes of slavery and freedom, offering commentary on the complexities of power dynamics and social hierarchies.
- Example: The interactions between Dick, Grandison, and the abolitionists raise questions about agency, loyalty, and the pursuit of freedom in a society built on slavery.
5. Narrative Structure
- Linear Narrative: The story follows a linear narrative structure, progressing chronologically from the initial setup to the resolution of the central conflict.
- Example: The story begins with Dick’s desire to prove himself to Charity Lomax and unfolds as he devises a plan involving Grandison’s role in his quest for validation.
6. Characterization Through Action
- Character Development Through Actions: Chesnutt develops characters primarily through their actions and interactions with others, allowing readers to infer their motivations and personalities.
- Example: Dick’s laziness is evident through his reluctance to exert effort in his pursuits, while Grandison’s loyalty to his master is demonstrated through his unwavering obedience and refusal to pursue freedom.
Literary Theories and Interpretation of “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
| Literary Theory | Interpretation of “The Passing of Grandison” | Example and Reference |
| Marxist Criticism | The story can be interpreted through the lens of Marxist criticism, which focuses on social class, power dynamics, and economic systems. “The Passing of Grandison” highlights the exploitation of labor and the oppressive structures of slavery. It explores the relationship between the wealthy plantation owner (Colonel Owens) and his enslaved workers, illustrating how the economic interests of the ruling class perpetuate systems of inequality and control. | Dick Owens, as the heir to a large estate, represents the bourgeoisie, while Grandison and other slaves represent the proletariat. The exploitation of Grandison’s labor for the benefit of the Owens family reflects the unequal power dynamics inherent in the capitalist system. |
| Feminist Criticism | Through a feminist lens, the story can be analyzed in terms of gender roles, power dynamics, and agency. Charity Lomax’s character challenges traditional gender norms by expressing strong opinions and agency, contrasting with the passive nature of Dick Owens. The story also highlights the limited agency of enslaved women, such as Betty, who are subject to the whims of their masters. | Charity Lomax’s refusal to accept Dick’s courtship until he proves himself demonstrates her agency and refusal to conform to traditional gender roles. Betty’s desire to marry Grandison reflects her limited agency within the confines of slavery, as she relies on her master’s permission. |
| Postcolonial Criticism | Postcolonial theory offers insights into the power dynamics and cultural imperialism depicted in the story. “The Passing of Grandison” explores the legacy of colonialism and its impact on race relations in the American South. The abolitionist movement is portrayed as a challenge to colonial ideologies of superiority and domination, as it seeks to dismantle systems of oppression and assert the humanity and rights of enslaved individuals. | The interaction between Dick and Grandison can be seen as a microcosm of colonial power dynamics, with Dick representing the colonizer and Grandison the colonized. Grandison’s resistance to Dick’s attempts to manipulate him reflects a subversion of colonial authority, challenging the notion of white supremacy. |
Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statements about “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
| Topic | Questions | Thesis Statements |
| Power Dynamics in Slave Ownership | – How does Chesnutt depict the power dynamics between slave owners and enslaved individuals in “The Passing of Grandison”? – What role does economic power play in shaping relationships between the Owens family and their enslaved workers? | In “The Passing of Grandison,” Chesnutt explores the power dynamics inherent in slave ownership, revealing how economic privilege and social status empower the Owens family while perpetuating oppression and exploitation among their enslaved workers. |
| Agency and Resistance | – How do characters like Grandison and Charity Lomax demonstrate agency and resistance within the constraints of their societal roles? – What forms of resistance are depicted in the story, and how effective are they in challenging the status quo of slavery? | Through acts of agency and resistance, characters like Grandison and Charity Lomax challenge the oppressive structures of slavery in “The Passing of Grandison,” demonstrating the resilience and resourcefulness of individuals striving for autonomy and freedom within a system of institutionalized oppression. |
| Irony and Satire | – How does Chesnutt employ irony and satire to critique societal attitudes toward slavery and freedom? – What instances of irony can be found in the story, and how do they contribute to its overall message? | Through the use of irony and satire, Chesnutt critiques societal norms and perceptions surrounding slavery and freedom in “The Passing of Grandison,” exposing the hypocrisy and absurdity inherent in systems of oppression while highlighting the resilience and agency of marginalized individuals striving for liberation. |
| Race, Class, and Social Hierarchy | – How are race, class, and social hierarchy depicted in “The Passing of Grandison,” and how do they intersect to shape characters’ experiences and interactions? – What commentary does Chesnutt offer on the intersections of race, class, and power dynamics in the antebellum South? | Chesnutt explores the intersections of race, class, and social hierarchy in “The Passing of Grandison,” revealing how these intersecting systems of oppression perpetuate inequality and exploitation while highlighting the complexities of identity and agency among individuals navigating the fraught landscape of the antebellum South. |
Short Questions/Answers about/on “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
- How does Dick Owens attempt to prove himself to Charity Lomax? Dick Owens endeavors to impress Charity Lomax by proposing a daring act: running off one of his father’s slaves to Canada. He sees this as a way to demonstrate his courage and heroism, hoping it will earn him Charity’s admiration. However, Charity dismisses the idea as absurd, highlighting Dick’s privileged position and his lack of understanding of the gravity of such an action. This exchange illustrates Dick’s misguided attempts to gain validation through superficial displays of bravery.
- What role does Grandison play in the narrative, and how does he demonstrate loyalty to his master? Grandison serves as Dick Owens’s loyal servant and is entrusted by Colonel Owens to accompany Dick on his trip North. Despite opportunities to seek freedom, Grandison remains steadfastly loyal to his master and the Owens family. For example, when Dick attempts to manipulate Grandison into running away, Grandison resists, expressing his contentment with his current situation and his commitment to serving his master faithfully. His unwavering loyalty underscores the complexities of the master-slave relationship and challenges conventional narratives of resistance.
- How does Charles W. Chesnutt critique the institution of slavery in “The Passing of Grandison”? Chesnutt critiques the institution of slavery by highlighting its dehumanizing effects on both the enslaved individuals and the slave owners. Through characters like Dick Owens and Colonel Owens, Chesnutt exposes the moral bankruptcy of a system that commodifies human beings for economic gain. For instance, Dick’s cavalier attitude toward running off a slave to prove his worth reflects the callous disregard for human life that slavery engenders. Similarly, Colonel Owens’s paternalistic justifications for slavery reveal the delusion of benevolence that often accompanied the brutal reality of owning human beings.
- What themes of irony are present in “The Passing of Grandison”? Irony pervades the narrative of “The Passing of Grandison,” particularly in the juxtaposition between characters’ intentions and outcomes. One notable instance of irony is Dick’s failed attempts to manipulate Grandison into seeking freedom. Despite Dick’s belief that Grandison will readily seize the opportunity to escape, Grandison remains loyal to his master, thwarting Dick’s plans and ultimately reinforcing the status quo of slavery. This irony underscores the complexity of power dynamics and the resilience of individuals within oppressive systems.
Literary Works Similar to “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
- “Desiree’s Baby” by Kate Chopin: This short story explores themes of race, identity, and social class in the antebellum South. Similar to “The Passing of Grandison,” it delves into the complexities of racial passing and the consequences of societal expectations and prejudices.
- “A Man Who Was Almost a Man” by Richard Wright: This story examines the quest for individual identity and agency in the face of systemic oppression. Like Chesnutt’s work, it portrays the struggles of African American characters within the context of racism and power dynamics in the American South.
- “The Wife of His Youth” by Charles W. Chesnutt: Another story by Chesnutt, this narrative explores themes of racial identity, passing, and social mobility. It shares similarities with “The Passing of Grandison” in its exploration of the complexities of racial identity and the challenges faced by individuals navigating societal expectations.
- “The Story of an Hour” by Kate Chopin: While focusing more on gender roles and societal expectations, this short story resonates with Chesnutt’s exploration of freedom, agency, and liberation. It delves into the inner thoughts and desires of the protagonist, Mrs. Mallard, highlighting the constraints of marriage and societal norms.
- “Sweat” by Zora Neale Hurston: This story addresses themes of power, control, and resistance within the context of an abusive marriage. While not directly related to slavery, it shares thematic resonance with “The Passing of Grandison” in its portrayal of individuals asserting agency and seeking liberation in oppressive circumstances.
Suggested Readings about/on “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
Books:
- Chesnutt, Charles W. “The Passing of Grandison.” The wife of his youth and other stories of the color line (1899): 1968-168.
- Andrews, William L., editor. Critical Essays on Charles W. Chesnutt. G. K. Hall & Co., 1999.
- Andrews, William L. The Literary Career of Charles W. Chesnutt. LSU Press, 1999.
- Wilson, Matthew. Whiteness in the Novels of Charles W. Chesnutt. Univ. Press of Mississippi, 2004.
Articles:
- Duncan, Charles. “The Absent Man: The Narrative Craft of Charles W. Chesnutt.” (1998).
- Ames, Russell. “Social Realism in Charles W. Chesnutt.” Phylon (1940-1956) 14.2 (1953): 199-206.
Weblinks:
- “Charles W. Chesnutt – ‘The Passing of Grandison’ Analysis.” Gradesaver, www.gradesaver.com/the-passing-of-grandison/study-guide/summary.
- https://americanliterature.com/author/charles-w-chesnutt/short-story/the-passing-of-grandison
Representative Quotations from “The Passing of Grandison” by Charles W. Chesnutt
| Quotation | Context | Theorization |
| “When it is said that it was done to please a woman, there ought perhaps to be enough said to explain anything…” | The story begins by introducing the main character, Dick Owens, who seeks to prove himself to Charity Lomax, a woman he desires. | This quotation sets the stage for the protagonist’s motivation, highlighting the theme of societal expectations and gender dynamics. |
| “I ‘ve always hated old Sam Briggs,” she said emphatically… “Personally I wish that all Sam Briggs’s negroes would run away.” | Charity expresses her disdain for cruelty towards slaves and her support for abolitionism, aligning with her Quaker heritage. | This quotation illustrates the moral compass of Charity and her sympathy towards the plight of slaves, foreshadowing later events. |
| “I don’t know, Grandison,” replied the colonel, lighting a fresh cigar… “But if you stick close to your young master…” | The colonel lectures Grandison on the dangers of abolitionists, emphasizing loyalty to the family and the consequences of disloyalty. | This quotation showcases the paternalistic attitude of slaveholders and the manipulation used to maintain control over enslaved individuals. |
| “I don’t know, Grandison,” replied the colonel, lighting a fresh cigar… “But if you stick close to your young master…” | The colonel lectures Grandison on the dangers of abolitionists, emphasizing loyalty to the family and the consequences of disloyalty. | This quotation showcases the paternalistic attitude of slaveholders and the manipulation used to maintain control over enslaved individuals. |
| “When he came back a couple of days later and found the faithful Grandison at his post, and the hundred dollars intact…” | Despite being given the opportunity for freedom and financial reward, Grandison remains loyal to Dick, his young master. | This quotation highlights the complexity of loyalty and the internal conflict experienced by enslaved individuals in oppressive systems. |