The institution of slavery is all about power. It's about the power to control the lives of other human beings. It's about the power to makes oneself rich from the sweat of another person's brow. It's about the power to unleash one's violent and sadistic desires without any fear of repercussion.
Although it can sometimes be difficult to look back at such a horrendous moment in human history, it's important to acknowledge them to prevent such grave evils from ever occurring again. And that's one of the reasons that Roots is such a milestone work of literature.
Questions About Power
- What do we learn from Missy Anne and Kizzy's relationship?
- How does class relate to racism? Are they inherently related?
- What leads African political leaders to work with slave traders?
- Why is a real relationship between Massa Lea and Chicken George impossible?
Chew on This
Missy Anne and Kizzy's relationship shows that there can be no true friendship if power is not balanced between both parties.
American aristocrats retain their dominance not just through the slave trade, but also through the subjugation of poor white people.