What themes or motifs did you notice within Douglass’ narrative? What do you consider to be the key passages in the narrative? Why are these passages so significant? 

Frederick Douglass’ “Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave” is a powerful story that conveys many different themes and motifs. One of the most prominent themes in this work is the power of literacy and education. Throughout his narrative, Douglass emphasizes how important it was for him to learn to read and write, as this knowledge enabled him to gain control over his own destiny and liberate himself from slavery. He writes about how his master attempted to deny him access to books because he feared that literacy would lead to rebellion among slaves; yet despite these efforts, Douglass still managed to eventually teach himself how to read. This strong desire for knowledge also motivates his eventual escape from slavery, since he uses reading newspapers as a key tool in planning and executing his getaway.

Another major theme throughout this work is resilience and hard work in the face of oppression. Despite being enslaved as a young child, Douglass experiences many hardships during his lifetime yet manages to remain determined in pursuing freedom through any means necessary. This drive for liberation alongside relentless courage are remarkable traits which continuously fuel Douglass on even when surrounded by difficult circumstances or hopelessness. At times he perseveres despite losing hope or feeling defeated; he never gives up on finding ways out of situations which threaten or impede upon this pursuit for freedom—which can be seen especially during one scene where an overseer tries breaking him down physically but ultimately fails due to Douglass’ inner strength and willpower not giving in under pressure.

A final significant motif present in this text is religious symbolism as well as references towards Christian faith throughout multiple passages—such as when describing witnessing other slaveowners whip their slaves with cruelty while at the same time comparing it with Jesus being whipped by Roman soldiers before His crucifixion (a biblical reference). Other times religion appears more subtlety like when describing certain characters such as Mr Covey who is written off very negatively by Douglass but then later redeemed thanks entirely due after praying together with another student—which becomes a clear symbol reinforcing redemption through faith/religiosity even if one has done wronged priorly (as took place with Covey).