Reflection On Frederick Douglass

When you think of taking a literature course, you realize there will be a lot of reading involved and hope the material is interesting. However, the list of stories that a teacher can choose from are endless. This semester was filled with wisdom and experiences of those that came before us in America. It was not only an English lesson, but a true trip into our nation’s past. Each author had an amazing life story to tell. The one thing in common with all authors was reality. Even Hawthorne’s deep, dark tales opened eyes to the truth that not all is pretty in the world. Everything must be faced to be overcome. The decision to choose one work over all others was truly difficult as they were all insightful and interesting. However, my mind kept returning me to Frederick Douglass’ narrative. Reading about what slaves went through and their ability to maintain their perseverance, was nothing short of miraculous. While reading Douglass’ narrative, I smiled, wept, and applauded. He took us on a …show more content…
I lived in Plymouth County near many spots of historical value. I learned about Columbus, the Pilgrims, and slavery as a young, white northern girl. However, as an adult, now in the south, I am able to see prejudice and inequality in schools systems that still remain in our country. Sadly, our country seems to never have fully conquered the ways in which African American citizens are mistreated. I hear the still-spoken awful slurs. I see the school systems economically unequal to those in white neighborhoods. Douglass’ freedom was indeed an event to celebrate, but he would be sad today, if he knew how deep the racial divide still lives on, especially in the south. Douglass, as well as Stowe, should be required reading in middle school and high school, with a helpful, age-related interpretation. Children need to be taught while very young to respect those around them regardless of color. This should be a nonissue in