Uncle Tom’s Cabin, Chapter 28 summary
Chapter 28 of 45 · Volume 2 · 23 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 28, St. Clare begins the legal steps to free Tom, while Miss Ophelia obtains a signed document giving her control over Topsy so she can protect her and grant freedom. As St. Clare considers the Christian duty to oppose slavery, a fatal stabbing interrupts his intentions, and he dies holding Tom’s hand.
What happens
- Grieving for Eva, St. Clare begins Tom’s emancipation, and Tom explains why freedom matters more than material comfort.
- Topsy’s treasured reminders of Eva reveal her grief, and Miss Ophelia insists on obtaining legal authority to protect her.
- Miss Ophelia urges immediate provision for the servants, while Scripture and music stir St. Clare’s thoughts about death and neglected duties.
- St. Clare discusses slavery, Christian responsibility, and northern prejudice with Miss Ophelia before going downtown.
- Tom dreams of Eva, then awakens as men bring home St. Clare, fatally stabbed while separating two fighting men.
- Tom prays at St. Clare’s request; St. Clare murmurs a hymn and dies after calling to his mother.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Tom makes practical care the measure of religious duty. This principle shapes St. Clare’s reflections on slavery and his own inaction.
Quick check
Why does Miss Ophelia insist on a legal document for Topsy?
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