Frederick Douglass’ Autobiography as a Historical Document

Analyze “The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave” by Frederick Douglas.

What are the advantages of an autobiography as a historical document? What are the disadvantages of an autobiography as a historical document? Give an example of each from The Narrative. What were some of the challenges Douglass faced in learning to read and write? What role did literacy and education play in his life? Give two examples from The Narrative. What effect did witnessing violence have upon Douglass as a child? As a young man? Which experiences do you think shaped him most profoundly, and why?