11th Grade
Autobiography
1150L
The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass: Excerpt from Chapter 11
Passage Summary:
Frederick Douglass (1818 –1895) was born a slave but became a social reformer, abolitionist, orator, writer, and statesman. In chapter 11 of his memoir, Douglass describes his escape from slavery and the challenges he faced upon becoming a free man.
When and How to Pair:
Have students read “The Narrative Life of Frederick Douglass: Excerpt from Chapter 11” after reading Sethe’s own escape story (Part 1, Chapter 3) to provide historical context on escaping slavery. Ask students to describe the risks and rewards Sethe and Douglass faced in their escapes. What motivated them in spite of the risks?