Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Chapter 26 summary
Chapter 26 of 45 · Volume 2 · 21 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 26, Eva prepares for death by defending Topsy, giving her servants locks of hair, and urging them toward Christian faith. As her strength fades, Miss Ophelia and Tom care for her, while St. Clare struggles to accept her loss; Eva dies surrounded by the grieving household.
What happens
- Eva defends Topsy’s gift of flowers against Marie’s scorn and asks Topsy to arrange flowers for her daily.
- Eva asks Miss Ophelia to cut her hair and insists that St. Clare acknowledge her approaching death.
- She gathers the servants, urges them to seek Christian salvation, and gives each a curl as a keepsake.
- Miss Ophelia nurses Eva, Tom carries and sings to her, and Marie’s demands keep Mammy occupied.
- Despite Eva’s apparent improvement, Tom keeps watch outside because he believes her death is near.
- At midnight Eva’s condition changes; she briefly embraces her father and dies after speaking of love, joy, and peace.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Eva makes each curl a reminder of both personal affection and shared spiritual hope. Her farewell joins love for the servants with her belief in heaven.
Quick check
Why does Tom sleep on the veranda outside Eva’s room?
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