Question

1. Why can Douglass not reveal the details of his escape to freedom? What does this lack of information reveal about his character and motives in writing?

2. What makes David Ruggles and Nathan Johnson true Christians?

3. How does Douglass contrast the Christianity of Christ with that of the slaveholders?

4. Does any of this material reflect Romantic characteristics? If so, how?

Answer 1

Douglass begins by speaking on a very controversial theme: slavery. Initially he is thrilled by the idea of escaping the confinement, however he is distraught when the reality sets in later. He realises that he may meet disguised strangers in the outside world who plan his re-captivity. It is only then that he starts fearing escapism ironically. In his later life, he depends on strangers once again to help in his journey of independence and co-existing. The details of his motives are thus not made clear, since the sense of mistrust and skepticism seeps in many a times.

2. Their desire to help people in distress and extent to which they go in order to smoothen things for their friends.