Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself | Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

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...

Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, Written by Himself | Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass

At a glance:

Form and Content

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