Fear and Anger

The novel explores the impact of fear and anger on the human psyche by way of the protagonist Jim’s storyline and first person point of view narration. In Part One, Jim flees enslavement when he learns that Miss Watson and Judge Thatcher plan “to sell [him] to a man in New Orleans” (33). While this decision helps him to escape immediate danger, it also intensifies his fear. Throughout the weeks and months following, Jim is forced to wander through the woods and down the Mississippi River, constantly attempting to avoid capture and death. No matter where Jim goes, he is haunted by his fear. He discovers that he is wanted for murder and kidnapping, and fears his own fate. Meanwhile, he fears for Sadie and Lizzie, and “hate[s] the idea of [them] feeling fear” on his behalf” (46). His concern for his family is...