Brutalities of Slavery and A Change in Lifestyle

As we continue reading The Narrative by Frederick Douglass, we see even harsher situations on the plantation that Douglass lives on. We read about overseers that have no concern for human life. Douglass writes about certain instances where slaves are brutally murdered. He also writes about things that slaves are not privledged enough to have. Such things are basic neccesities such as food, clothing, and shelter. He uses this vivid imagery again to create a personal and emtional connection.

A turning point in the story is when he moves to Baltimore to serve as a butler for Hugh's family. This is a turning point in his life because he is finally taught how to read and write. I feel that when Frederick Douglass learns to read and write then he acquires a sense of freedom. Mrs. Hugh is the one who teaches him. When Mr. Hugh finds out about this he is furious. He says that once you teach him to read then he will not be able to be kept as a slave. To me, this is a symbol that by slave becoming smarter and more knowledgeable about their outside world then they free themselves. Personally, it made me feel a lot happier about this book when I read that Douglass had the courage to continue to learn to read and began to progress himself.