Initial Thoughts on Uncle Tom's Cabin

Within the first few pages of Uncle Tom's Cabin, I was experiencing some redhead anger; Harriet would probably be pleased that her writing was doing its job. Haley speaks of the slaves as if they were sub-human somehow. Evidently, they don't have feelings and don't develop attachment to their children; a trinket of some sort would be enough to replace a child. Even Shelby, who  is supposedly a much better man than the gaudy, rude Haley, treats Harry like a dog or a bit of amusement. I think the description of Harry as this beautiful, vibrant child is meant to tug at our hearts, show his humanity, and increase our disgust when he is used as entertainment and tossed bits of fruit like a rewarded dog. The entire dialogue dismissing the relationship between slaves and their children is quickly contradicted by the scene of a grief and terror-stricken Eliza pleading on behalf of her child and, later, doing everything in her power to bring him to safety. Such scenes of deep emotion and humanity seem to have the intent of building connection with and empathy for the slave characters of the book. Well played, Stowe.