Washington Black tells the story of a slave born in Barbados who manages to escape from the plantation. Black, nicknamed "Wash," is appointed as an assistant to Titch, the slavemaster's brother, who tutors him and helps him to escape. The novel deals with the hardships of slavery but also interestingly the hardships of freedom, as Wash struggles with a sense of guilt, responsibility, and burden after escaping.
The novel also explores the importance of science and the arts in providing an escape and sense of accomplishment for people. Titch is fascinated with science and tries to create a "cloud-cutter," or hot-air balloon. After Titch teaches Wash how to read and write, the 18-year-old becomes fascinated with drawing and painting, using it as an escape from his life as a slave.
