Annis, the main character of Let Us Descend, is born into a complex familial structure. Her mother was an African-American and a slave who was raped by Annis' father. Annis' father wants nothing to do with her because he fears that he will be ostracized for having sex with his slave.
Annis' family structure underscores the hypocrisy and moral incongruities of the era. Slaves were thought of as property; however, property can't bear children. Additionally, Annis was born as the result of an illicit relationship between her slave mother and her white father—who subsequently sold her into the very institution he perpetuated. This exemplifies the inherent contradiction and cruelty within the institution: a father, who is supposed to live with his child, treats her with utter contempt as a way to earn money.
Through her journey, during which she is forced to march first to the plantations in North and South Carolina (and work there), Annis spends her time on introspection. Specifically, Ward's emphasis on Annis' identity (and the identity of her family) plays an important role. Through her introspection, the novel likewise shows the importance of knowing your personal history—and the history of your family. Without knowing your history amidst dehumanizing circumstances, a person may not be able to draw on it for strength and fortitude.
Furthermore, Annis's transformation into a spiritual being who finds solace in myths and spirits, showcases the similar importance of finding strength in a higher power in trying circumstances. Her relationship with another woman on the plantation serves as a beacon of hope and showcases the importance of human connections, love, and camaraderie in survival. It almost represents one of Annis' greatest hopes in life: to find someone to love.
