Discussion Questions for
Escape From Slavery

When I read accounts of slavery it horrifies me. Why were so many people willing to accept it as being okay?

Why was Douglass' faith in God so important to him? Do you think he could have done what he did without it? (pg. 11)

What does Douglass mean when he writes, "I have often wished myself a beast. . . . Any thing, no matter what, to get rid of thinking. It was this everlasting thinking of my condition that tormented me"? (pg. 14)

Why do you think the whippings by Mr. Covey were able to "break" Douglass? (pg. 24)

Why do you think the fight with Mr. Covey changes the attitude of Douglass? (pg. 33)

Why do you think Douglass enjoyed teaching his fellow slaves so much? (pg. 36)

How would you describe Frederick Douglass?

What emotions did you experience as you read this account of slavery? DId it make you angry? Sad? Pensive?

Why do you think people were able, in their own minds, to justify slavery?

©2005-2013 Glen Draeger (all rights reserved)
Millstone Education: World Literature / http://www.millstoneeducation.com/worldLit