Generation Of Abuse In Slavery

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Generations of Abuse
“12 Years a Slave”, revealed the abuse that slaves were subject to, no longer allowing a blind eye cast towards the horrors of the past. Slaves were emotionally, physically, and psychologically abused every day; others forced to perform unreasonable and inhumane tasks. Many slave owners grew up in the business of owning slaves, for a certain slave owner known as Edwin Epps, the act of slavery or owning Negros as property came as natural as breathing. To Mr. Epps, the slaves he owned weren’t human beings, merely inanimate objects, like a garden rake for instance. Edwin Epps’ numbness on the issue revealed itself during a conversation with Mr. Bass, a hired hand from Canada, Epps stated, “If something rubs you wrong, I offer you the opportunity to speak on it.” Mr. Bass replied, “Well, you ask plainly, so I will tell you plainly. What amused me just then was your concern for my well-being in this heat when, frankly, the condition of your laborer’s…” Edwin interrupted, “The condition of my laborer’s?” Mr. Bass explained to him that the …show more content…

Bass, he believed that the Negros were no different to himself, but humans alike with contrasting skin color. He told Epps that it is erroneous to delight in the possession of another and treat them like a savage animal. In his prideful manner and conditioned to the idea of slavery, Mr. Epps didn’t respect Mr. Bass’ opinion as a wise one. Though Epps believed the mistreatment was okay, it didn’t stop him from establishing a relationship with one of his female slaves, by the name of Patsey. His emotions for Patsey became clear when his wife learned of their affiliation and forced him to beat her. However, because of his emotional connection to Patsey, Mr. Epps was unable to do it and instead made Solomon beat her in his place. This proves that the cruelest people can show remorse facing certain situations that infringe on their beliefs or affect people dear to

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