Clotel · Chapter
Clotel explained
The chapter introduces Clotel, the daughter of Thomas Jefferson and a slave woman, and follows her tragic story of love, betrayal, and eventual death.
What happens
The chapter introduces Clotel, the daughter of Thomas Jefferson and a slave woman, and follows her tragic story of love, betrayal, and eventual death. Clotel is sold into slavery, begins a relationship with Horatio Green, is later sold again, escapes in disguise, returns to Richmond to find her daughter Mary, is arrested as a fugitive, and ultimately leaps from the Long Bridge to her death rather than be recaptured.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy of American Democracy
The chapter exposes the contradiction between American ideals of liberty and the institution of slavery, particularly through Clotel's lineage as the daughter of a Founding Father.
Tragedy of the Tragic Mulatta
Clotel's story embodies the tragic mulatta trope, as her mixed-race heritage and beauty lead to both desire and suffering, culminating in her suicide.
Characters to notice
- Clotel
The protagonist, a beautiful and educated slave woman, daughter of Thomas Jefferson, who experiences love, betrayal, and a tragic end.
- Horatio Green
A young white man who begins a relationship with Clotel and later marries Gertrude, betraying Clotel.
- Currer
Clotel's mother, who is sold at auction along with Clotel and Althesa.
- Althesa
Clotel's sister, who is also sold and later purchased by Henry Morton.
- Mr. Green
George Green, Clotel's brother, who is sentenced to death for rebellion but escapes with Mary's help and reunites with her in Canada.
Key passages
“Clotel was a beautiful and accomplished woman, but her skin was dark, and she was a slave.”
Clotel was talented and attractive, but because of her African ancestry, she was enslaved.
Highlights the theme of color prejudice and the arbitrary nature of slavery based on race.
“With a heavy heart, Clotel leaped from the Long Bridge into the Potomac River, preferring death to a life of slavery.”
Clotel chose to die by jumping off the Long Bridge rather than be forced back into enslavement.
Climactic moment illustrating her ultimate act of resistance and the tragedy of her situation.