University:
Harrisburg University of Science and Technology
Course:
ENGL 300 | English Language Literature
Academic year:

2024
Views:

85

Pages:

2
Author:

April Ortiz

Study questions for Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass Chapter 5 1. What were Frederick’s initial impressions of his new mistress Mrs. Auld? Frederick's initial impressions of his new mistress, Mrs. Auld, were positive. He describes her as being kind-hearted and sympathetic, treating him with a degree of compassion and tenderness that he had not experienced before. Initially, he believed her to be an advocate for his education and improvement Chapter 6 1. What, according to Frederick, changes Mrs. Auld? According to Frederick, Mrs. Auld changes after being exposed to the corrupting influence of slavery and the power dynamics inherent in the institution. As she becomes more accustomed to her role as a slaveholder and embraces the prejudices and attitudes of the slaveholding class, she undergoes a transformation, becoming harsher and more cold-hearted towards Frederick and the other enslaved individuals 2. Why is Mr. Auld angry when he finds Mrs. Auld teaching Frederick his letters? Mr. Auld is angry when he finds Mrs. Auld teaching Frederick his letters because he believes that education and literacy will make Frederick unfit for slavery. He understands that knowledge is empowering and that an educated slave poses a threat to the stability of the slave system. Therefore, he perceives Mrs. Auld's actions as dangerous and detrimental to his own interests as a slaveholder 3. Why does inability to read keep men enslaved according to Frederick? According to Frederick, the inability to read keeps men enslaved because it denies them access to knowledge and critical thinking skills. Illiteracy perpetuates ignorance and dependence, making it easier for slaveholders to control and manipulate enslaved individuals. Without the ability to read and educate themselves, slaves remain trapped in a cycle of oppression and exploitation 4. Why does Frederick hope to gain by learning how to read? Frederick hopes to gain freedom and liberation by learning how to read. He recognizes that education is the key to emancipation and empowerment, as it provides him with the tools to challenge the injustices of slavery and advocate for his rights. By acquiring literacy, Frederick aims to defy the constraints of slavery and assert his humanity and dignity as a free individual