Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Chapter 40 summary

What happens

1. Tom prays for the fugitives while Legree organizes another search with armed men and dogs.
2. In the attic, Cassy mourns her children, and Emmeline offers affection and hope in God.
3. After the search fails, Legree summons Tom, who admits knowing the fugitives’ whereabouts but refuses to betray them.
4. Legree threatens death, briefly hesitates at Tom’s appeal, and then subjects him to prolonged violence.
5. Tom forgives Legree and loses consciousness, but remains alive after Legree leaves.
6. Sambo and Quimbo tend Tom’s wounds, receive his forgiveness, and turn toward Jesus through his teaching and prayer.

In this chapter

What to notice

Tom openly acknowledges his knowledge but refuses betrayal. His willingness to face death marks the limit of Legree’s power over his conscience.

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