Twelve Years a Slave

Northup describes the inhumane rituals Freeman subjects him and his fellow captives to in the slave market. Before prospective customers, they are forced to walk back and forth and show their teeth. Several men and women are also taken to a back house, where they are stripped naked and inspected. Northup notes, “Scars upon a slave’s back were considered evidence of a rebellious nature or unruly spirit, and hurt his sale” (48). Northup is also obligated to play his violin so customers can watch the slaves dance.

Still recovering from smallpox, Northup is not sold for some time. He becomes hopeful when a slave master from New Orleans shows interest in buying him, believing it will be easier to escape from a major port city than a rural plantation. The price is too high, however, and the man declines.

Chapter 6 also focuses on the plight of Eliza as she is separated from both of her children. Randall is sold first. As he is ushered away from his mother, he tells her not to cry, claiming he will be a good boy. Another man named William Ford offers to purchase both Eliza and Emily together, but Freeman refuses, claiming, “There were heaps of money to be made of her […] when she was a few years older.