Character Analysis
Mrs. Flint
Mrs. Flint, Dr. Flint's second wife, is much younger than her husband. She is naïve and insecure, and she lacks the emotional maturity to deal with her husband's lascivious behavior. Even though she realizes that Linda is a victim of her husband's lust, she turns her wrath on Linda rather than confront her husband, fearing that her pride and dignity are at stake. If she fully acknowledges the situation, she would have to be indignant at the idea of her husband desiring the sexual favors of a slave, when he has her to meet his needs. If she convinces herself that Linda is to blame, she can ignore her husband's behavior. Conversely, Mrs. Flint, a product of 19th century Victorian prudery, probably subscribes to the perception of white women as pure and virtuous, in contrast to black women, who are perceived as amoral creatures all too willing to indulge their masters' lust. Being unable to express her fear, Mrs. Flint seeks relief by venting her hatred and jealousy on Linda.