Explain how Douglass draws on the theories of the earlier writers like Crevecouer, Franklin, and Emerson in appealing to his reader’s views on freedom and individual rights.

READER RESPONSE TO DOUGLASS
ENGL 234.1
AMERICAN LITERATURE
040823 ©2004 Jim Kosmicki Page 1 of 1
Pick any one of these questions to answer in a detailed answer of approximately one typed page in length. You
should pick the question that you feel that you can answer the most completely. There is no one question that is
“better” than the other one.
1. Explain how Douglass draws on the theories of the earlier writers like Crevecouer, Franklin, and
Emerson in appealing to his reader’s views on freedom and individual rights.
2. Explain, as best as you can, what you think the most disturbing elements, attitudes or actions associated
with slavery were. Don’t just identify them; be sure to explain WHY they are so disturbing to you. Also,
try to deal with the other side as well: why would the slave-owners have done such disturbing things;
what’s their rationale?
3. In his own way, Douglass is an example of the self-made American as much, if not more, than Franklin.
So why are my students always surprised to find out about him? Why is Douglass’ story not better
known, or taught more in schools? What is there about this story that would lead teachers or schools to
avoid teaching it? Are these legitimate reasons, or just excuses? Explain your answer as best as you can.
4. We are told quite clearly that writing and reading is considered dangerous for slaves to learn. But why?
Explain why this is so dangerous, when it would seem to make the slaves more capable of doing more
types of work.
5. Many students are disturbed by Douglass’ depiction of the use of religion to justify slavery. Explain
HOW the slave owners and masters used religion. Remember, you are not justifying their actions or
interpretations of religion, you are simply describing how THEY saw and interpreted religion.
Check your assignment. Reread it. Reread it again. Make sure that it is a solid, well written work of the proper
length, and that it fully answers the question posed in the topic.

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