Assertions

Learning to Read and Write by Fredrick Douglass Assertion

“Learning to read and write” by Fredrick Douglas is a story about Frederick Douglas’ journey on learning to read and write as a slave and eventually escaping. The authors’ purpose was to show the readers that knowledge can be a blessing and a curse but having determination can better yourself and the world around you. In the passage, Frederick Douglass says; “As I writhed under it, I would at times feel that learning to read had been a curse rather than a blessing. It had given me a view of my wretched condition, without the remedy.” After beginning to learn how to read and write, Douglass began to realize that if he didn’t use his knowledge to escape now, then he would be a slave forever. While learning to read and write, Douglass learns about the cruel realities of the world but also learns about the concept of abolition, which inspires him to escape slavery and fight for others who couldn’t fight for themselves.  After reading this passage, you cant tell that his devotion to reading and writing is what helped him escape. This passage shows that Douglass had incredible strength and courage to become literate which led to his successful escape to his freedom.