The Underground Railroad Lesson Plan

What is the nature of Homer’s relationship with Ridgeway? Why does he stay, and what does this suggest about the world of the novel?

Homer is Ridgeway’s driver and handles his finances. He is a ten-year-old Black boy and appears devoted to Ridgeway, who bought him and then freed him. Even though Homer is free, he continues to stay by Ridgeway’s side and assists him in capturing fugitive slaves. When Cora questions this dynamic, Ridgeway explains that Homer stays with him because he understand there is no future for Black boys anywhere in the country. This logic mirrors Ajarry’s logic toward Cora, that there is nothing beyond the plantation for Black people. This...