Don Juan · Theme

Freedom and Slavery

How Don Juan develops Freedom and Slavery.

The theme of physical and metaphorical slavery pervades the narrative, from the slave market where Juan is sold to the critique of political oppression, with characters reflecting on how 'most men are slaves' to their own passions or to society.

Where it surfaces

Dedication
Byron contrasts the 'clanking chain' of Italy and Ireland with the ideal of freedom, and denounces Castlereagh as a 'tinkering slave-maker' who mends old chains for all mankind.
Canto V
The chapter centers on the slave market, with Juan and Johnson discussing the nature of slavery and the hope of becoming masters.