Ideology and Oppression: Dr. Flint as the Antagonist in Harriet Jacobs's Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl

Abstract

Harriet Jacobs's Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, originally published in 1861, is a seminal work that provides a profound and emotive account of an enslaved Black woman's struggle for freedom and self-determination. This paper explores the role of ideology and representation in Jacobs's portrayal of Dr. Flint, the primary antagonist, through the lenses of Louis Althusser's and Jacques Lacan's theories. By analyzing the narrative techniques and symbolic language employed by Jacobs, this study reveals how Dr. Flint embodies the systemic oppressive forces of slavery. The paper argues that Jacobs's depiction of Dr. Flint not only underscores the dehumanizing nature of slavery but also serves as a tool of ideological resistance, highlighting the unique challenges faced by enslaved women. This analysis contributes to a deeper understanding of how literary devices in slave narratives can illuminate the broader social and power dynamics of the antebellum South. Ultimately, this paper aims to shed light on the complexities of Jacobs's narrative strategies and their impact on both contemporary and modern readers.