About “The life of Frederick Douglass”
This may include the rhetorical triangle or any of the rhetorical annotating tools.
Antislavery Speech
Frederick Douglass regularly attended abolitionist meetings. At such a meeting in 1841, Douglass was unexpectedly asked to speak about his slavery experiences. His words were so well delivered and inspiring, he was encouraged to become an anti-slavery lecturer. Several days later, Douglass delivered his first speech at the Massachusetts Anti-Slavery Society’s annual convention in Nantucket. Then 23 years old, Douglass said later that his legs were shaking the entire time. However, he conquered his nervousness and gave an eloquent speech about his rough life as a slave. Douglass continued giving speeches around the country. He participated in the American Anti-Slavery Society’s Hundred Conventions project, a six month tour of meeting halls throughout the United States. He also participated in the Seneca Falls Convention, the birthplace of the American feminist movement.
In the spirit of Douglass’ talent and passion for delivering speeches, what would an antislavery speech that would have been delivered in 1860? The speech must include the information from the excerpt (in 6 your own words) as an example of the cruelty of slavery and as proof as to why slavery should be ended. The speech must:
Have a catchy introduction, persuasive and supporting arguments for why slavery is wrong and should
be ended, and a moving, memorable conclusion
Written in the voice of an abolitionist in 1860 ( NOT use racial slurs, however, even those would have been utilized at the time.)
Accurate information regarding the institution of slavery as experienced by Frederick
Douglass. You should also include additional information, thoughts, and commentary on slavery not
found in your excerpt
Be persuasive, realistic, and creative.
– 2 to 3 minutes in length