Parsley: Queen Of The Field In 'Twelve Years A Slave'?

In Solomon Northup's harrowing memoir, Twelve Years a Slave, parsley is mentioned as being the "queen of the field." This seemingly simple statement holds significant weight when examined within the context of the antebellum South and the lives of enslaved people. Unpacking this metaphor reveals insights into the economic realities of slave labor, the subtle forms of resistance employed by the enslaved, and the symbolic value attached to even the most humble of crops. Let's delve deeper into understanding why parsley might have earned such a regal title in the fields of Louisiana.

The Economic Significance of Parsley

To understand why parsley might be considered the "queen of the field," it's crucial to consider its economic significance within the plantation system. While cotton was undoubtedly the king, dominating the Southern economy and driving the demand for enslaved labor, other crops played important roles in sustaining the plantation and generating profit. Parsley, though not a major cash crop like cotton or sugar, held considerable value due to its versatility and consistent demand. It was a valuable commodity because it could be sold at market and used to supply the planter's table.

First, parsley was a staple in Southern cuisine. Enslaved cooks often used it to flavor dishes, adding much-needed nutrients and enhancing the taste of meals for both the enslaved and the planter's family. Second, parsley had medicinal properties. It was used to treat various ailments, providing a readily available remedy for common health problems. Third, parsley fetched a good price at market, and it was easy to cultivate. Planters appreciated its low maintenance, and it brought in consistent revenue throughout the growing season. Unlike cotton, which required intensive labor and was subject to fluctuating market prices, parsley offered a more stable and reliable source of income.

For enslaved people, the cultivation of parsley might have represented a small measure of autonomy and control. While they were forced to labor under brutal conditions, their expertise in growing and utilizing parsley could have been a source of pride and empowerment. The ability to contribute to the plantation's economy through their knowledge of this valuable herb might have provided a sense of agency, however limited, within a system designed to strip them of their humanity. This economic importance, combined with its practical uses and potential for empowering enslaved people, likely contributed to parsley's elevated status as the "queen of the field."

Parsley as a Symbol of Resistance

Beyond its economic value, the "queen of the field" title for parsley could also be interpreted as a subtle form of resistance against the oppressive plantation system. Enslaved people often found ways to subvert the control of their enslavers, using their knowledge of the land and its resources to their advantage. The cultivation and use of parsley could have been one such form of resistance.

By carefully tending to the parsley crop, enslaved people could demonstrate their skills and knowledge, challenging the racist notion that they were intellectually inferior. They could also use parsley for their own purposes, such as trading it with other enslaved people or using it in traditional remedies, thereby creating a parallel economy and social network outside the control of the planter. Additionally, the very act of assigning a regal title to parsley could be seen as a symbolic act of defiance, a way of imbuing a simple herb with dignity and importance in the face of dehumanization. This resistance, rooted in the skillful management and symbolic elevation of parsley, could have solidified its position as the "queen of the field," a symbol of resilience and defiance in the face of oppression.

Moreover, the act of secretly using parsley for their own benefit, such as in traditional remedies or as a subtle flavoring in their meager meals, could represent a quiet act of reclaiming agency. In a world where every aspect of their lives was controlled, the ability to utilize this unassuming herb for their own purposes could have provided a small but significant sense of empowerment. This quiet resistance, woven into the daily lives of enslaved people, further elevates the symbolic importance of parsley.

Parsley and Culinary Traditions

Parsley's role in culinary traditions of the enslaved also contributes to its esteemed position. Foodways were a crucial part of African American culture, providing sustenance, community, and a connection to their heritage. Enslaved cooks skillfully incorporated parsley into a variety of dishes, adding flavor and nutrients to meals that were often meager and monotonous. The ability to transform simple ingredients into flavorful and nourishing food was a testament to their culinary expertise and resourcefulness.

The enslaved people brought with them culinary traditions and knowledge from their native lands. Parsley, or similar herbs, might have been used in traditional African dishes, and its continued use in the Americas would have been a way to maintain cultural connections. The herb could also have been used to supplement the meager rations provided by enslavers, adding vital nutrients and flavor to their diets. This reliance on parsley, coupled with the culinary expertise of enslaved cooks, elevated its status within the enslaved community and contributed to its symbolic importance as the "queen of the field."

The knowledge of how to cultivate and utilize parsley was likely passed down through generations of enslaved people, becoming an integral part of their cultural heritage. This intergenerational knowledge, combined with the herb's practical and symbolic value, solidified parsley's position as a cherished and respected plant within the enslaved community.

The Symbolic Power of Nature

Finally, the "queen of the field" designation underscores the profound connection that enslaved people had with the natural world. Despite being subjected to brutal and dehumanizing conditions, they maintained a deep understanding of the land and its resources. Parsley, as a readily available and versatile plant, became a symbol of their resilience and resourcefulness. It represented their ability to find sustenance, healing, and even a measure of beauty in the midst of hardship.

In a system designed to strip them of their identity and connection to their heritage, enslaved people found solace and strength in the natural world. They used plants for medicinal purposes, for food, and for spiritual practices, maintaining a vital link to their ancestral traditions. Parsley, as a readily accessible and versatile herb, became a powerful symbol of this connection to nature. Its presence in the fields and gardens of the plantation served as a constant reminder of the enslaved people's ability to find beauty and sustenance in the face of adversity. The title "queen of the field" acknowledges this deep connection and celebrates the resilience and resourcefulness of those who were forced to labor under unimaginable conditions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the seemingly simple phrase "queen of the field," used to describe parsley in Twelve Years a Slave, carries a wealth of meaning. It speaks to the economic realities of the plantation system, the subtle forms of resistance employed by enslaved people, the importance of culinary traditions, and the profound connection between enslaved people and the natural world. By unpacking this metaphor, we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of slavery and the resilience of those who endured it. The next time you encounter parsley, remember its hidden history and the powerful symbolism it held for those who toiled in the fields of the antebellum South. Understanding the context behind the phrase "queen of the field" offers a profound insight into the lives and experiences of enslaved people, highlighting their resilience, resourcefulness, and enduring connection to the land.

For further reading on the history of enslaved people in the United States, consider visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture website.