Description:

DUTIES OF CHRISTIAN MASTERS
Very rare (and most ironic) book, Duties of Christian Masters by H. N. McTyeire, Southern Methodist Publishing House, Nashville, 1859, 290pp. sm. octavo in brown cloth boards, lacking spine. This amazing text sets forth the proper manner in which slaves are to be treated by their Christian masters, and makes comparisons between the Biblical treatment of servants and property and the manner in which slaves were treated in the South in the 1850's. For example, the books mentions that an owner would never relentlessly beat a $175 horse, but a troublesome slave could easily receive such treatment. The text also suggests slaves be given rest on Sunday, that they be given "Sunday" clothes, and extra food according to their work. The chapter headed "Servants as Social Beings" urges restraint in punishment, condemns the slave trader for breaking up families, and urges that Christianity be introduced to all servants. Alternatively, the book warns masters that blacks were the most effective liars (being unable to blush), are jealous of their masters, and could turn church services into social gatherings. Final chapters are entirely devoted to religious instruction of slaves and their existence as religious beings. This is fascinating reading, and probably was quite provocative in its time!

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipment is sent priority or equivalent by courier, signature required, unless otherwise instructed. Handling, shipping and insurance charges will be added to the invoice.

May 13, 2009 10:00 AM EDT
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 21.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000