Autobiography and "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass"

Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the significance of Fredrick Douglass' first autobiography, "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass: An American Slave", in the history of America and the abolitionist movement. The paper compares Douglass with the Roman philosopher and former slave, Epictetus, who equates education with freedom. The paper concludes that, like Epictetus, Douglass presents the theory that knowledge is the path to freedom.

From the Paper:

"As Douglass obtains more knowledge and understanding, he quickly becomes dissatisfied with his world. While his eyes were opened to the many inequalities and wrongful actions that take place within the world of slavery, he is left with no answers as to why his freedom has been compromised. Douglass's inability to grasp the concept of his captivity causes him to become hostile and angry. Douglass expresses his frustration towards the white boys helping him to learn, "You will be free as soon as you are twenty-one, but I am a slave for life!" (Douglass, 53). Although Douglass rightfully conveys dissatisfaction towards his slavery, his main objective to learn is still being fulfilled."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Douglass, Frederick. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass: An American Slave. Delaware: Prestwick House, 2004.

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