Examples Of Self Preservation Of Big Anthony

443 Words2 Pages

The author proves in Georgia that not only was self preservation abundant but also came in different shapes and forms in slave communities. Whitehead proves this through the characters in Georgia. Whether it be Caesar's will to escape, or Cora's protection of her garden, or Nag's "licentious practices." Caesar's will to escape is a pretty evident form of self preservation . Caesar want to escape the Randall Plantation for obvious reasons. What makes this a true act of self preservation is that Caesar was willing to escape despite knowing the severe consequences of attempting an escape. With the recent capture of Big Anthony, and punishment, you would think that all slaves would be traumatized and that the thought of escaping wouldn't cross their minds. This wasn't the case for Caesar. In fact, he persisted that Cora come with him to improve his chances of escape. “But I’m going soon, and I want you. For good luck.” (Whitehead 34) Furthermore, this proves the lengths that a slave will go to preserve one's well being and how one's willingness to survive will outshine the welfare of another person. …show more content…

The garden was an escape from the solemn plantation life and one of the only possessions that she owned. To protect Cora's garden was to protect her will to live. After all, it was the only place where she felt that she owned herself. “She owned herself for a few hours every week was how she looked at it, to tug weeds, pluck caterpillars, thin out the sour greens, and glare at anyone planning incursions on her territory.” (Whitehead 19) When Blake set his dog on that garden and built a doghouse on that garden, Cora knew that she had to do something about it. By breaking the dog house with the hatchet, Cora not only made an example of Blake to future intruders but also showed self preservation because she protected somewhere where she felt

Open Document