Douglass's Personal Accounts

In chapter five, Douglass begins to focus on his personal stories. Douglass describes his own treatment at Colonial Lloyd’s planation is less harsh compared to other slaves. To me it becomes very clear why Douglass added the stories of the other slaves. If he had not done that the book would have not been has powerful as it is! But, also while reading these chapters I notice that Douglass takes on dual roles; the free and educated Douglass versus the abused slave Douglass. Also another duality is made aware to the reader in this narrative the Northern Cities versus the Southern Countryside. Douglass describes the Northern cities as having a lot of prosperity, enlighten people, and social freedom. On the other side, Douglass describes the Southern Countryside with limited freedom. Another motif that is made aware in this narrative is the damaging effects of slavery to both slaves and slave owners. (A recurrent thematic element in an artistic or literary work.) For example, the reader can definitely see the negative impacts slavery had on Sophia Auld. When Douglass first arrives Sophia treats him equally with her son. But after the coaching of Hugh, she becomes very evil and mean. When I read this part, I just felt so much sorrow with this hateful transformation. Another theme in this narrative is the power of education. (A subject of artistic representation) Once Hugh Auld refuses Douglass’ attempts to become educated; it seems to enlighten Douglass. Douglass realizes in order to gain control over his situation is to become educated. In chapters seven and eight, Douglass uses digression technique when he goes out of chronological order of the story. (A temporary departure from the story to address a subject or an event.) He discusses how Sophia refuses to teach him how to read and also talks about his experiences with The Columbian Orator. Douglass also discusses his brief trip back to the Eastern Shore around age ten and then his return to Thomas Auld’s plantation three years later. I think Douglass uses this technique to have the reader focus more on the present themes then the time that has passed.