Balaam and His Master, and Other Sketches and Stories

"Balaam and His Master, and Other Sketches and Stories" by Joel Chandler Harris is a collection of short stories likely written in the late 19th century. The work explores themes of Southern life, social dynamics, and the complex relationships between masters and their slaves, often reflecting a mix of irony and profound insight into human nature. Central to the opening sketch is the character Berrien Cozart, a rebellious young man whose tumultuous journey is intertwined with that of Balaam, his devoted slave. The opening of the book introduces the townsfolk of Billville, Georgia, describing how the settlement came to be named and focusing on the Cozart family. Berrien, spoiled and beautiful but unruly, grows up in a close bond with Balaam, who serves as both caretaker and confidant. Their relationship is depicted against a backdrop of social expectations and familial pressures, illustrating the internal struggles Berrien faces as he navigates his reckless tendencies. As the narrative progresses, it hints at Berrien's eventual downfall and the critical moments that define his character, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the choices that lead to his fate. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Joel Chandler Harris was an American journalist and folklorist best known for his collection of Uncle Remus stories. Born in Eatonton, Georgia, where he served as an apprentice on a plantation during his teenage years, Harris spent most of his adult life in Atlanta working as an associate editor at The Atlanta Constitution.