This blog is produced by community college students in a world literature course.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Douglass's Motivation
Frederick Douglass's drive is what progresses him throughout the story. He has an overwhelming desire to become more than what he is. He keeps his mind on his goals even when things look bad for him. It seems like the more he gets knocked down, the more motivated he is to get back up and keep going. Instead of getting discouraged and giving up hope, he pushes himself harder every time something tries to hold him back. Not being able to read is a slight set back for Douglass. Mr.Auld scolds Mrs.Auld for simply teaching Douglass three and four letter words and once he sees how upset Mr.Auld becomes over this, his eyes are opened to how important an education is for him. "These words sank deep into my heart, stirred up sentiments within that lay slumbering, and called into existence an entirely new train of thought... From that moment, I understood the pathway from slavery to freedom."(250-251 Douglass) This part of the story really stood out to me because I think it is a turning point for Douglass. It pushes him to the next step by showing that having an education could help create a way out for him, and once he starts educating himself by reading whatever he can get his hands on, he realizes how wrong and unjust slavery really is. "The more I read, the more I was led to abhor and detest my enslavers."(253 Douglass) Reading creates even more of a drive in him and allows him to see things that are hidden and kept away from the other slaves. Douglass's motivation is what makes him different from the others around him. His story should be an inspiration to anyone looking to overcome anything.
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Hey girl...we do not have to post a comment this week...but I enjoyed your blog...good job!
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