Literary Analysis for “The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass”

Directions: You are going to write three analysis paragraphs, between 400-500 words, on “The
Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.” Read the following instructions carefully.

Paragraphs 1 and 2:
Choose two traits of the Slave Narrative, found on the graphic organizer for the text. You may not
use “A quest for literacy” because I’m using it in my example below. Your first paragraph will
explore and analyze trait one, with the second paragraph focusing on trait two.

In these two paragraphs you need to identify the trait and analyze Douglass’ purpose for using this
trait in his narrative, as well as its potential effect on the audience. (Do not simply identify a trait and
provide a connecting quote. Delve into why this trait was consciously explored and included by
Douglass.)

The first sentence in your first paragraph should include and “Although” thesis statement with
2-3 Green Words. The full name and title of the text should also be included. Your last sentence
in your second paragraph should be a transition sentence connecting these traits to Realism, as
this will be the final topic of your literary analysis.

Paragraph 3:
Your third paragraph will focus on how Douglass’ narrative is an example of Realism. Select a quote
that you feel best represents the ideas and characteristics of Realism. You must explain the quote’s
connection to Realism, as well as analyze the impact and effectiveness of Douglass using a lens of
Realism to depict his experiences, rather than one of Romanticism.
You may use your class notes and the “Characteristics of Realism” found in your Fast Food Nation
reading packet

Format:
Each paragraph should follow the SPC format. You need a statement (with 2-3 Green Words, to be
connected to analysis), proof from the text, and commentary that connects your statement and
proof. You should have a minimum of three quotes, with proper citation and MLA formatting.

**Remember, you must have three separate paragraphs, one for each trait that you choose and one
that explains how this narrative is an example of Realism. Each paragraph should be at least 5-6
sentences (including the quote).
 Key
Blue = “Although” Thesis Statement
Green = Green Words (Noun, Abstract, Connotative, Value Driven)
Pink = Proof (Text-based evidence)
Yellow = Commentary (Explanation, Analysis/inferences made by the reader based on
Proof)

Example for Paragraph 1:

Although Frederick Douglass experiences oppression and degradation at the hands of his

white masters, his quest for literacy and humanizing the experiences of slaves in “Narrative of the

Life of Frederick Douglass”, demonstrates his dedication to the fight to end slavery. The often

secretive attempts by slaves to learn how to read and write was a dangerous, potentially life

threatening activity. For Douglass, his quest for literacy was temporarily stifled due to the inhumane

treatment experienced at the hands of Mr. Covey: “My natural elasticity was crushed, my intellect

languished, the disposition to read departed, the cheerful spark that lingered about my eyes died; the

dark night of slavery closed in upon me; and behold a man transformed into a brute” (542).

Frederick Douglass knew how to read and had a thirst for knowledge when he began working for

Mr. Covey, but his desire to remain literate began to fade as Mr. Covey treated him harshly and

forced him to work all day and night. His quest for literacy was temporarily destroyed by Mr.

Covey’s cruel treatment. By revealing his defeated mindset at the hands of Mr. Covey, Douglass is

revealing the de-humanizing tactics of slave owners, as well as providing a humanizing lens for his

own pain and desires. Such vulnerability would elevate the emotional connection between Douglass

and his audience, as well as further humanize the men, women and children victimized by slavery.