In chapter X of Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass, An American Slave, Written by Himself, Douglass openly criticizes the hypocrisy of slaveholders using their supposed faith to justify the cruel practice of slavery; instead of modifying their behaviors to align with Christianity, enslavers modify their faith to legitimize their actions. As Douglass persistently highlights his frustration on the matter with a pessimistic tone, he latter alleviates the negativity and transitions into a more uplifting segment.
As the author portrays Mr. Freeland and his new laboring conditions, he tells of how he manages to spark “a strong desire to learn how to read” in some of the black laborers, which results in his creation of a “Sabbath school” where he teaches his “loved fellow-slaves how to read” (1044). Douglass’ optimism and cheerfulness begin to resurface while he accounts of the joy he acquires through his teachings. He no longer feels helpless, but feels further inspired by the bravery of his companions and students, providing a sense of hope in his spirit; Douglass feels blessed and “delight of [his] soul to be doing something that looked like bettering the condition of [his] race” (1045).
Though sometimes questioning the existence of a higher power, as he directly reads the Bible and rejects the translations of Christian ideals through “corrupt” preachers, Douglass most likely establishes the true concept of Christianity; however, teaching his companions how to read through the Bible gives him pleasure specifically because of the relationships that manifest and the trust he creates with his companions instead of the religious aspect itself. He finds his hope in the other slaves and through the action of spreading knowledge. Education and fellowship reignite his aspiration. Douglass expresses love for his fellow-slaves and confides in them more than ever before with anyone else. He reveals how they all became a single unit working together and claim they “were one” (1045).
American Literature 