Rufus and Thor
Rufus and Thor are both characters who, despite their initial interest in improving the situation of the colored members of their society, end up betraying this mission and submitting to the white supremacist narrative of their time. In the beginning, they are inspired by a black figure–Dana and Berbelang–to become attracted to the cause of empowering colored people. This partnership between a white and a black character is unusual for their time and is a big personal sacrifice for both individuals. It’s important to note the challenge of Dana and Berbelang’s position here: these two characters are both outliers in their colored community (the enslaved people at the Weylin plantation and the Mutafikah) because they believe that a sympathetic white person can be instrumental to promoting the best interests of their community. Despite the warnings of other people in their community, Dana and Berbelang develop a relationship with Rufus and Thor and put their trust in them, even if it en