Prompt to Précis (Book report) Assignment on Narrative of the Life of Fredrick Douglass, An American Slave, Written by Himself
Requirements:
• Précis MUST be cited in Chicago Manual of Style. This style was covered in the first and second class lectures. If you were absent, it is your responsibility to obtain the lecture notes from a classmate and/or research how to cite in Chicago style. Papers cited in any other style such as MLA or APA will not be graded, and will receive a 0% toward the final grade in the class.
• Citations must be within the text where the quote or paraphrase is located. They need to specify the page or pages quoted or paraphrased.
• No more than one block quote is permitted (fine lines from the book, single spaced).
• It is acceptable and even encouraged to read how specialists in the field of History view the book. Do not, however, use more than one source other than the book.
• Your review must answer ALL the questions posted in the prompt.
• The length of the review must be a minimum of two pages double spaced, except the block quote (single spaced).1
• Précis must be uploaded to Blackboard (no exceptions), and a paper copy should be handed in the day it is due in class, October 20, 2017.

1 The use of one block quote is permitted, however, not encouraged.
Questions
1-Who was Frederick Douglass?
2-Describe his account of the practice of separating the mother from the child. What significance does this description have in the context of the abolitionist’s message?
3-Frederick Douglass describes the “allowance” that slave children received. What information can you infer from this description? What did you learn about a slave’s life after reading this narrative?
4-How did Douglass manage to escape? What is the significance of his escape in the context of the “paternalistic” theory of slavery?
5-What is Douglass’ view of planters’ brand of Christianity?
6-How were slave women treated by masters or overseers?
7-Overall, what is your view of Frederick Douglass’ autobiography? Does the author support his arguments satisfactorily and clearly? Support your argument with specific examples from the book.2
2 Remember,

Category: Essays