Chapter 1 Argument Analysis & Reflection
What is an argument made in this chapter?
Douglas claims to argue about how brutal slavery is and how severely people were treated. He uses his explanations with perfect examples and stories to help illustrate his original point of view. He then discusses the importance of education in his escape from slavery.
1st example of text evidence to support his argument
Follow “Says, Means, Matters”
“I have often been awakened at the dawn of day by the most heart-rending shrieks of an own aunt of mine, whom he used to tie up to a joist, and whip upon her naked back till she was literally covered with blood. No words, no tears, no prayers from his gory victim seemed to move his iron heart from its bloody
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He shows how Covey, once a decent man, has been corrupted by the system of slavery and turned into a cruel and inhumane monster. Meanwhile, Douglass himself is forced to endure a constant state of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty, never knowing when he will be beaten, whipped, or punished for some minor infraction. 2nd example of text evidence to support his argument
Follow “Says, Means, Matters”
Douglass presents several examples to support his argument that slavery is a corrupt and dehumanizing system that strips both slaves and slaveholders of their basic human dignity and moral integrity. One such example is the story of Edward Covey, a slave breaker who Douglass is hired out to work for.
Douglass describes how Covey is known as a "slave breaker" and is feared by slaves throughout the region. During his time working for Covey, Douglass is subjected to brutal beatings, psychological manipulation, and degrading treatment. Covey's goal is to break Douglass's spirit and make him a subservient and obedient slave.
Despite the harsh treatment he endures, Douglass eventually fights back against Covey and manages to resist his efforts to break him. This act of defiance marks a turning point in Douglass's life and gives him the courage and determination to eventually escape