Literary Analysis of the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglas and The MulattoTwo different authors
In our readings of Victor Sejour’s The Mulatto, and the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, we find that these two stories are somewhat similar in the fact that they both exhibit the life of a slave in the nineteenth century. Through the readings the reader observes the strife and struggle that these two men, Georges, and Frederick Douglass endured, and also key events in their lives. There are a few differences in the way the two writers chose to tell these stories that make the writing styles of Victor Sejour, and Frederick Douglas quite identifiable. One of the first things that the reader notices when comparing the two pieces of literature, is the fact that The Mulatto is written in third person, whereas the Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass is written in first person. The various points of view give the reader a different experience, and perspective of the events that are being expressed. In the preface of Frederick Douglass’ story, WM. ... At this instance the reader feels a direct connection with the narrator of the story, and therefore has an easier time understanding the emotions and experiences of the protagonists in the stories, and in essence is thrust into the life of Frederick Douglass. ... In reading the brief biographies of the tow authors, it is understood that the two men come from completely different walks of life. ... Frederick Douglass’s narrative; however, is an autobiography and his accounts as a slave and his escape to freedom are portrayed justly. The reader can give more credence to the words of Frederick Douglass and can actually utilize his narrative, not only as an impeccable work of literary genius, but also as a historical reference of the times of slavery. ... The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass is a work of nonfiction and is considered an account of history. This narrative is filled with personal accounts of altercations with the overseer and the slave masters.