Racism and Prejudice

Throughout the novel, some characters display clearly both actions of racism and prejudice, while others seem to negate those actions through their own acceptance of race. Butch Lovemaiden, for example, is racist in both thought and deed, as he consistently calls the black characters "niggers," referring to them only to question their intelligence, honor, status, honesty, or morality. Even Mr. Poleymus, shown to be a kind and moral man, shows racism as he openly discusses his disapproval of Lucius staying with a black family. On Ned's word, however, Poleymus is able to dampen his racist attitudes in favor of the human right to free choice, showing the ability of some characters to change.

On the other hand, Sam shows a true faith in Ned, a black man, as well as in Uncle Parsham and his family. Sam is true to his word, giving Ned the money...