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Religion is portrayed, like most other themes in this novel, as having a distinct dividing line between the white and black race.
White race:
White race:
Harper critiques religion for being the hypocritical type that could “ride to church on Sundays, and talk so solemn with the minister about heaven and good things, then come home and light down on the servants like a thousand bricks”(48).
Black race:
Black race:
Harper depicts religion as both genuine and empowering. The oppression of the black race and its need to uplift itself is connected to Jesus’ own sacrifice for the good of mankind.
Harper writes: “‘Have we been beaten and bruised in the prison-house of bondage? He was spit upon by the mob, smitten and mocked by the rabble, and died Rome’s meanest criminal slave. To-day that cross of shame is a throne of power” (256).
This connection to the trials of Jesus is extremely empowering and full of hope that though they may not receive protection now, they can sacrifice themselves to achieve it for the future of their race.
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