Introduction
Frederick Douglass is one of the most central figures in the history of America and Black people. His books, where he truthfully described his and his people’s hardships and adversities, sold many copies. The main focus of these books was to expose the hard truth that was his reality and simultaneously give hope to people of color and empower them. In his autobiography, Douglass displays an array of personal features that allows him to preside above oppression and serve as a guiding beacon for other slaves. The most important personal qualities of Frederick Douglass are bravery, kindness, and determination.
Bravery
Bravery is a trait that bolsters one’s ability to conquer their fears, and fear was one of the principal assistants in white slaveowners’ control over slaves. Oftentimes in order to break a natural human strive for freedom and instill fear, slaveowners used corporeal punishment. An example of this is Edward Covey, to whom Douglass was sent to be bent into a more manageable slave, “he resolved to put me out, as he said, to be broken” (Douglass 57). After receiving severe and unjust punishment, Douglass finds the courage to fight against Covey. He does not only fight but also persists in being ready to defend himself again if it becomes necessary (Douglass 72). This ability to continuously stand his ground is the utmost expression of bravery that one can experience.
Kindness
Another trait that defines Douglass is kindness which he displays on several occasions throughout the book. He was able to read and write, so he took educating enslaved black people in Sabbath school (Douglass 55). The ability to read and write would act as a support system for people’s strive for freedom as it once served Douglass himself. Therefore, it was important for Douglass to extend this knowledge, even if it was dangerous, as white men came to the school with sticks and meaning harm (Douglass 55). The condition of the human heart is such that it tends to harden as a consequence of continuous suffering. Therefore, his ability to help others in the face of danger showcases Douglass’s kind disposition.
Determination
Determination was an essential trait for slaves that sought freedom as it often came with a plethora of obstacles. In Douglass’s case, his will to be a free man has been hindered by corporeal punishment, as it was stated above. His bravery was fueled by his determination to become free, “I was determined to be used so no longer,” so he physically fought with the cruel slave owner and won (Douglass 72). Another instance of his determination is shown when Douglass is given to William Freeland, who is a less violent and meteoric person (Douglass 77). Despite the improvement in the environment, Douglass still aims to break free from the chains of slavery along with three other slaves (Douglass 84). Even having been imprisoned for these attempts does not cripple his future endeavors until he finally succeeds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Frederick Douglass and his autobiography serve as an exceptional example of a person’s endeavor for the achievement of personal freedom and the greater good of the people. The most important personal traits that Douglass expresses throughout the book, bravery, kindness, and determination, acted as inspiration for the Black liberation movement and for people’s personal empowerment. His bravery is displayed through altercations with the slaveowner, and his kindness is shown through his selfless educating of other slaves. Finally, his determination shines in his unyielding strive for freedom despite negative and positive distractions.
Work Cited
Douglass, Frederick. Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave. Written by Himself. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1999.