Essay Questions

What is the main theme in Horse: A Novel by Geraldine Brooks?

The main theme in the novel is slavery. The novel is set in the 1850s when slavery was dominant in most plantations. The novel's protagonist is a slave to Dr. Warfield. Despite Jarret being 13 years old, he works as an enslaved person. Jarret's father has been emancipated from slavery, but he does not have enough money to buy his son's freedom. Later, Jarret is sold to several other enslavers. Therefore, the novel focuses on the dark age of slavery and its negative effects.

What is common between Jarret and his father, Harry?

Harry and his father have many things in common, but their love for horses is outstanding. Harry is working on a horse farm owned by Dr. Warfield. Harry also worked in different horse farms and has a special connection to horses as his son. When a new foal called Darley is born on the farm, Jarret and his father instantly fall in love with it. Fortunately, Dr. Warfield gives Jarret full ownership of Darley to compensate him for his good work. Therefore, Jarret's dream of owning a horse is actualized, and his father is proud of him.

Why is Ten Broeck plotting to buy Darley?

After gaining ownership of Darley, Jarret trains him very well until he starts winning vital horse races. When Ten Broeck's horse is defeated, he threatens Dr. Warfield that he will reveal to competition organizers that Darley belongs to Jarret. Dr. Warfield agrees to sell Darley to Ten Broeck. Ten Broeck wants to buy Darley to win horse race bets. However, Jerret tries to escape with Darley, but Ten Broeck thwarts their plan. Dr. Warfield decides to sell both Darley and Jarret.