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Use Of Rhetorical Devices In Frederick Douglass

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Alayna Poston L. DiCiaula AP English 25 February 2023 Frederick Douglass Essay Frederick Douglass was a prominent figure in the abolitionist movement, and both his works, “What is your Fourth of July to Me?” and his autobiography The Narrative of Frederick Douglass demonstrate this idea. This essay will compare these two works, analyzing the use of rhetorical devices and the themes of freedom, hope, and perseverance. In his work, Douglass uses rhetorical devices to emphasize the hypocrisy of American freedom. For example, Douglass’ repetitive use of questions, “Fellow-Citizens, pardon me, allow me to ask, why am I called upon to speak here to-day? What have I, or those I represent, to do with your national independence? Are the …show more content…

And am I, therefore, called upon to bring our humble offering to the national altar, and to confess the benefits and express devout gratitude for the blessings resulting from your independence to us?” (Douglass 1). This device forces the audience to consider his words and reflect on their beliefs. Additionally, Douglass’ use of irony serves to further emphasize the gap between American ideals and the reality of slavery. Through his words, he communicates that while the nation celebrates its freedom, those who are in bondage cannot share in the same joy. This same sediment is seen in the Narrative of Frederick Douglass, in which Douglass paints pictures of the harsh realities of slavery in America: “I must have perished with cold, but that, the coldest nights, I used to steal a bag which was used for carrying corn to the mill. I would crawl into this bag, and there …show more content…

Throughout his book Douglass implies that his narrative was inspired by God: “From my earliest recollection, I date the entertainment of a deep conviction that slavery would not always be able to hold me within its foul embrace; and in the darkest hours of my career in slavery, this living word of faith and spirit of hope departed not from me, but remained like ministering angels to cheer me through the gloom. This good spirit was from God, and to him I offer thanksgiving and praise.” (Douglass 19). According to Douglass, he was motivated by the belief that God sent him faith and hope that he would be removed from slavery. Moreover, in his speech he also speaks upon his faith as he compares it to Americas flawed ideals. “What then, remains to be argued? It is that slavery is not divine; that God did not establish it; that our doctors of divinity are mistaken? There is blasphemy in that though, that which is inhumane cannot be divine! Who can research such a proposition?” (Douglass 3). Using this quote, and the rest of page three, Douglass establishes that arguing that slavery is inhumane is insignificant compared to arguing about how Americans put the blame on God. Overall, throughout his works it has been settled Douglass is strongly spoken and willing to fight for what he knows to be

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