Twelve Years a Slave · Chapter
IV explained
Solomon describes the journey from the slave pen in Washington to Richmond, the embarkation on the brig Orleans, and the sorrows of fellow captives like Eliza, Clem Ray, and Robert.
What happens
Solomon describes the journey from the slave pen in Washington to Richmond, the embarkation on the brig Orleans, and the sorrows of fellow captives like Eliza, Clem Ray, and Robert. He recounts the deceptions, the handcuffed march through Washington, and the beginning of his life in bondage.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy of American Freedom
Solomon is handcuffed and marched through Washington, the capital of a nation founded on liberty, past the tomb of Washington.
Family Separation
Eliza's anguish over being separated from her children and the fear of David and Caroline being parted.
Deception and Betrayal
Eliza is deceived by Jacob Brooks, and Solomon is tricked into slavery despite being a free man.
Characters to notice
- Solomon Northup
Narrates his experiences in the slave pen and on the brig Orleans, marking his tin cup and planning escape.
- Elizabeth
Grieves for her children and sings hymns, mourning her separation from them.
- Clem Ray
Initially handcuffed to Solomon, later returned to Washington; eventually escapes to Canada.
- Robert
A free-born man from Cincinnati, chained with Solomon; dies shortly after.
- James H. Burch
Slave trader who transports the group to Richmond and threatens Solomon for mentioning New York.
- Little Emily
Eliza's young daughter, noted for her sweet countenance despite her disheveled appearance.
Key passages
“I was almost resolved to attempt to break away. Had I not been handcuffed the attempt would certainly have been made, whatever consequence might have followed.”
Solomon nearly tried to escape while being marched through Washington, but the handcuffs prevented him.
Shows his desperation and the physical restraint that thwarted his first escape attempt.
“Hail! Columbia, happy land, indeed!”
Solomon sarcastically mocks the patriotic song 'Hail Columbia' as he is led in chains through the capital.
Highlights the irony of American freedom and the reality of slavery.
“If ever I hear you say a word about New York, or about your freedom, I will be the death of you—I will kill you; you may rely on that.”
Burch threatens to kill Solomon if he ever mentions being from New York or being a free man.
Reveals Burch's awareness of the illegality of enslaving a free man and his willingness to murder to cover it up.