Beloved 2

After the abolishment of slavery, the black community became the core of African American culture and life. This was due in part by segregation and other socioeconomic factors, but also to the spiritual and social unity of each black member. The black community played a major role in Beloved, especially with their interactions with Sethe. After Sethe's escape from slavery, she traveled to Cincinnati to reunite with her children and mother-in-law, Baby Suggs. She arrived …

…of the present." (Morrison, 256) Even though Sethe's pride was still an issue with the community, her need for help and support far outstripped that. Ella brought together thirty women from the community, some armed with "what they believed would work...Others brought Christian faith-as a shield and sword." (257) The women banded together in a common cause, to help one of their own. The conflict, begun some twenty years before, was resolved with one word, help.