Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass (Masterplots II: African American Literature Series)
At a glance:
- Author: Frederick Douglass
- First Published: 1845
- Type of Work: Autobiography/slave narrative
- Time of Work: c. 1817–1841
- Setting: Maryland and Massachusetts
- Principal Characters: Frederick Bailey, Harriet Bailey, Betsey Bailey, Aaron Anthony, Thomas Auld, Hugh Auld
- Genres: Nonfiction, Autobiography
- Subjects: African Americans, Freedom, Blacks, Abused persons, Biracial people, Abolitionists, Authors or writers, Escapes, Slavery or slaves, Violence, Civil War, Reading, Public speaking
- Locales: Maryland, Massachusetts
Form and Content
In 1841, three years after Frederick Douglass escaped from slavery, he launched his career as an abolitionist. In Nantucket, Massachusetts, he spoke for the first time about his slave experiences before a white audience. Before that, he had told his story only to black gatherings. So impressive was his account that he was hired as a full-time antislavery lecturer by the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society.
By 1844, the society was becoming increasingly disturbed that many were doubting Douglass’ authenticity. His critics saw him as being too refined and...
[The entire page is 2634 words long]
Join eNotes
Over 3,500 study guides, question and answer forums, literature criticism, reference content, and much more!
Navigate
See Also
