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Clotel · Theme

Heroism and Resistance

How Clotel develops Heroism and Resistance.

Enslaved characters display courage, intelligence, and agency through acts of escape, rebellion, and self-sacrifice, challenging the dehumanizing system of slavery.

Where it surfaces

  • Narrative of the Life and Escape of William Wells Brown

    William's escape, his work as an abolitionist lecturer, and the woman who drowned herself rather than live without her family exemplify resistance.

  • III: The Negro Chase

    The fugitives' desperate attempts to escape, including wading through swamps and climbing trees, demonstrate resistance against an oppressive system.

  • The Religious Teacher

    The enslaved characters subtly resist the pro-slavery sermon by criticizing it and expressing disbelief in its teachings.

  • Death of the Parson

    The enslaved people's song openly celebrates the death of their oppressor, a form of covert resistance and expression of defiance.

  • XVIII: The Liberator

    Georgiana and Carlton resist social and legal norms by advocating for emancipation and better treatment of slaves, while the slaves themselves work diligently in hope of freedom.

  • XIX: Escape of Clotel

    The chapter highlights the ingenuity and bravery of fugitive slaves, including Clotel's disguise as a gentleman and William's selfless gift of his savings, as well as the clever escapes of other slaves.

  • XXI: The Christian’s Death

    Georgiana's emancipation of her slaves and her principled stand against colonization exemplify heroic resistance to slavery.

  • The Arrest

    Clotel risks her freedom to rescue her daughter, and the chapter details the armed resistance of slaves under Nat Turner and Picquilo.

  • XXV: Death Is Freedom

    Clotel's desperate flight and suicidal leap are portrayed as a heroic act of defiance, choosing death over enslavement.

  • The Escape

    George joins a slave revolt and later escapes with Mary's help, demonstrating active resistance against slavery.

  • The Mystery

    George's persistent efforts to rescue Mary and his self-improvement through education exemplify resistance against the constraints of slavery.

  • The Happy Meeting

    George Green's steadfast fidelity to Mary and his refusal to marry anyone else exemplifies personal resistance and heroic devotion.