On Excerpts and Endings in Uncle Tom's Cabin

After our discussion in class today, I kept thinking about the choices of the Norton editors in shortening this novel so significantly.  Though I have never read the novel in its entirety, it is clear that quite a bit of the substance on racism and the horrors of slavery, especially those based on maternalism, were preserved.  

The focus on Stowe's abolitionism very much came at the expense of the plot; I had a difficult time following the narrative when huge chunks were elided in favor of footnotes. I found Tom's character especially needed further explanation than I learned through the shortened version.  In both instances in which slaves escape (Eliza and Henry, Cassy and Emeline), Tom stays behind to look out for the other slaves.  In the instance of Eliza and Henry especially, because it was so early on in the story, I couldn't figure out why Tom decided to stay.  It is irrational for two reasons — his self interest, which his lack thereof may be explained by his piousness, but also his interest in Eliza and Henry. Wouldn't they be more safe with the guidance of Tom?  In instances such as this, I found myself wanting further explanation which I am sure the 600+ page book provided.

I also found the ending unsatisfying because it came in the form of a footnote.  Wrapped up in just one sentence, it seemed like too happy of an ending, almost with the irony of "As You Like It".  Though the Norton succeeded in expressing the novel's moral, I felt disappointed in missing so much of the narrative.