Frederick Douglass Literary Analysis

Famous author and orator, Frederick Douglass, addresses the mythologies of slavery in his novel. He elaborates on the horrors he’s seen and endured as a slave. Douglass believed that only through education can freedom be obtained. His determination to no longer live the life of an ignorant slave was fueled by his conviction for liberation. Ultimately, he strived to be a literate and free man. During his journey, he was given the opportunity to influence fellow slaves who shared the same goal. Douglass found inspiration through literature, individuals, and himself. In his narrative, he highlights the controversial issues regarding the romantic image of slavery, the mistaken belief of black intellectual inferiority, and the disloyalty among slaves. …show more content…
Many white men had the belief that they were responsible for the care and civilization of Africans for they were not capable to live for themselves. In reality, slaves were barely able to live under the conditions and rations at their homes. Cleverly, slaves resulted to stealing, begging, or praying in order to survive (31). Douglass and other slaves would also escape to other slaveholder’s houses to be fed. They quickly came to the conclusion that they had to fend for themselves because it was nearly impossible to solely live off of the minimal amount of food they received. Slaves often attempted to escape from their masters because they could not handle the abuse. The invention of the underground railroad is one example of the many clever escape routes used by slaves. Douglass had faith in the hidden intellect of fellow slaves. During his return to Mr. Freeland, he met many slaves and persuaded them into sharing the desire of learning how to read. Douglass created his own school, teaching slaves to read on Sundays. He highlights when he “had at one time over forty scholars...all ages...desiring to learn” (48). Every Sunday those slaves exhibit their intellectual capabilities by making the decision to learn rather than acting in the way their masters …show more content…
As a slave, Douglass struggled through starvation, abuse, self-doubt, suicidal thoughts, and inhumane treatment. Douglass had his first revelation when his master, Mr. Auld, spoke the truth about slavery. He states that the reason blacks are enslaved is because of the difference in intellect between the races. Douglass turns his words into motivation towards his freedom. Douglass makes becoming literate his top priority. He explains how he would give the poor white children he encountered bread “who, in return, would give [him] that more valuable bread of knowledge” (23). He tricked the kids into teaching him their lessons from school in exchange for bread. Douglass utilized this time as well as teaching himself on his own time. He came across the book “The Columbian Orator” and began reading it every chance he had. This book became one of the main reasons Douglass was able to regain his faith and escape the chains of slavery. The book contained a story of a slave who became emancipated, motivating Douglass even more towards gaining his freedom. Not only was Douglass self-motivated, but he aimed to help other slaves gain freedom by becoming literate. The school he created inspired and restored faith in many slaves. He influenced slaves “of all ages, though mostly men and women” (48). Douglass’s determination throughout his life was the chief reason for his accomplishments and allowed for his

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