Northup, the lawyer who is also instrumental in securing Solomon’s freedom, proves himself a faithful friend by working on Solomon’s case for many months and traveling all the way from New York to Louisiana to rescue Solomon. It’s Bass’s compassion and loyalty that lead to Solomon’s freedom. For example, the kindly carpenter named Bass has no family but forges a deep family-like connection with Solomon as the two spend many nights talking secretly. In the book, family is more than marriage and blood relatives-it’s the people who show each other unconditional love and loyalty. Likewise, family can provide a sense of purpose and a reason to live. 12 Years a Slave also shows how even the mere thought of family can be a source of comfort and hope in times of bitter pain and distress. Instead, family encompasses those who show one another love, compassion, and loyalty, regardless of whether or not they are related. The narrative points out that the concept of family is broader than being related by blood or marriage. Although Solomon’s family appears very little throughout the narrative, family plays a key role in Solomon’s experiences. 12 Years a Slave centers on the twelve years of agony that author and protagonist Solomon Northup spent as a slave in Louisiana, completely cut off from his family.
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