Rhetorical Situation
Who is the Rhetor of the story?
Frederick Douglass, a writer and escaped slave who was an activist in the abolitionist movement.
“I regarded the selection of myself as being somewhat remarkable (46)." What is Douglass referring to in this quote?
Going to Baltimore in Chapter 5.
Why did Mr. Gore shoot a slave?
The slave refused to exit the creek after being whipped.
Who is the audience of the story?
Literate white’s in the North, and abolitionists who are working to help free slaves but have never been slaves themselves.
“My connection with master Daniel was somewhat of an advantage to me. He became quite attached to me, and was a sort of protector to me (42).” How does this treatment of Douglass compare to his treatment under Colonel Lloyd?
Douglass under Colonel Lloyd was abused and physically tormented, under Daniel is the complete opposite where he now feels safe and protected. These two experiences contrast.
Why would Mr. Gore ensure to always go through with his threats?
So that the slaves would stay intimidated and not doubt his threats.
What is the context of Chapter's 4 and 5?
In the year 1845, in Maryland, Chapter 4 and 5 describes the abuses and conditions Douglass and his fellow slaves received as slaves from cruel owners.
How does Douglass react when he is chosen to go to Baltimore?
He becomes optimistic and excited about the journey and believes his experiences as a slave present unique situations.
Why didn’t Douglass have any strong connections with his family?
His mother died at a young age and his grandmother lived far from him.
What was the overall subject of Chapter's 4 and 5?
Frederick Douglass's difficult life during his time as a slave under Mr. Gore and conditions as a child under Colonel Lloyd.
“At any rate, this whole fiendish transaction was soon hushed up. There was very little said about it at all, and nothing done (41).” Which appeals does Douglass convey to the audience?
The audience’s sympathy and sense of morality.
How would Mr. Gore justify his immoral treatment of slaves?
He would convince himself and others that it was for their safety of keeping the slaves under control.
What is Douglass's overall purpose in Chapter's 4 and 5?
To vividly portray and describe the inhumane and difficult aspects of slavery in his adult life and childhood in order to help advance the abolitionist movement.
“...Demby was no more. His mangled body sank out of sight, and his blood and brains marked the water where he had stood (39).” How does this imagery of Demby make the reader feel?
This story strikes sympathy and horror into the reader by using strong imagery and a vivid description.
Why did Douglass prefer to move to Baltimore?
He didn’t have any family connections at his home and he lived in bad conditions that couldn’t be any worse in Baltimore.