TL;DR
A Mercy by Toni Morrison explores the complexities of early American slavery through the lens of a mother-daughter relationship and the lives of those on a small farm in colonial New England.
What is A Mercy about
A Mercy, written by Toni Morrison, is set in the 1680s when the transatlantic slave trade was still in its infancy. The story revolves around Jacob Vaark, an Anglo-Dutch trader who reluctantly takes a young slave girl, Florens, as part payment for a debt. Florens, who is literate, seeks love and belonging after being rejected by her mother. The novel delves into the harsh realities of slavery and portrays the ambivalent relationship between a mother and daughter—specifically, a mother who sacrifices her daughter to save her and a daughter grappling with feelings of abandonment. Morrison's work sheds light on the human aspects beneath the institution of slavery.
A Mercy 5 Key Takeaways
Jacob Vaark's Reluctant Acceptance of Florens
Jacob Vaark, an Anglo-Dutch trader and adventurer, takes Florens, a young slave girl, as part payment for a bad debt. His discomfort with dealing in 'flesh' highlights the nascent yet pervasive nature of slavery in the 1680s.
Florens' Search for Love
Florens, rejected by her mother, initially seeks love and acceptance from Lina, an older servant woman, and later from a free African blacksmith. Her search underscores themes of belonging and maternal abandonment.
The Arrival of the Blacksmith
A handsome blacksmith, an African who has never been enslaved, arrives at the Vaark farm. His presence disrupts the status quo and catalyzes significant changes in Florens' life.
The Maternal Sacrifice
The core of the story is the revelation that Florens' mother cast her off not out of rejection but to save her from a harsher fate. This act of 'mercy' is a poignant exploration of maternal love and sacrifice.
The Role of Willard and Scully
Willard and Scully, two white indentured servants, regularly assist on the Vaark farm. Their presence highlights the complexities and variances within different forms of servitude during that era.
Top A Mercy Quotes
- ‘There is no protection but there is difference.’
- ‘To be given dominion over another is a hard thing; to wrest dominion over another is a wrong thing; to give dominion of yourself to another is a wicked thing.’
- ‘Don't be afraid. My telling can't hurt you in spite of what I have done and I promise to lie quietly in the dark – weeping perhaps or occasionally seeing the blood once more – but I will never again unfold my limbs to rise up and bare teeth.’
Who should read A Mercy?
A Mercy is ideal for readers who appreciate historical fiction, particularly those interested in early American history and the complexities of slavery. Fans of Toni Morrison's evocative prose and intricate character studies will also find the novel deeply rewarding.
A Mercy Best Reviews
- Morrison's narrative genius shines through in A Mercy, where she masterfully examines the psychological and emotional labyrinths of slavery, providing a visceral and haunting portrayal of early American life. - The New York Times
- A Mercy is a stunning work that captures the brutal realities of slavery while weaving a deeply emotional and human story of love, loss, and survival. Toni Morrison once again proves her unmatched literary prowess. - The Guardian
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A Mercy FAQs
What is the purpose of A Mercy by Toni Morrison?
Toni Morrison wrote A Mercy to explore the early days of American slavery, aiming to remove race from the equation and focus on the human elements of servitude and sacrifice.
Why is the book called A Mercy?
The title reflects the central act of maternal sacrifice, where Florens' mother 'saves' her daughter by casting her off, a poignant act of mercy rather than abandonment.
Who are Willard and Scully in A Mercy?
Willard and Scully are two white indentured servants who work on the Vaark farm. Their roles underscore the varied forms of servitude and social hierarchies present in the 1680s.