How to Write an Analysis - American Slave Literature

Penman's Guide

Slave Narratives: these were the autobiographies of slaves from their oppression to their freedom (mainly written in the 19^th century). It shows the brutality they faced and the humanity they posses, along their journey to freedom.
Slave narratives were written both during the time of active slavery and in the years following. Post-Emancipation writing focused on civil rights and the ongoing fight for equality.
The legitimacy of slavery is questioned.
Dehumanization is a strong theme in these works.
It focuses on the attempts to escape and the fight for freedom.
They expose the cruel reality of slavery with the denial of basic human rights, as well as physical abuse, separation of family and friends, and of course, forced labour.
Immorality was an underlying theme.
Dealing with the issues of racism and racial profiling and the limitations that ensue, even after slavery was abolished, especially noting the difficulty of access to education.
The aim of this literature was also to humanise Afro-American slaves by challenging stereotypes and prejudices, they did so by sharing their stories, emotions, and aspirations.
Many times it is possible to see the bonds formed between mutual slaves who supported each other during this time, which gave a sense of the collective struggle.
The audience in mind is also an important factor, as these works were often written to persuade white readers, and appeal to their humanity, and unite in the fight against slavery.
Many slaves when freed had no way to support themselves economically and therefore now faced other problems, such as housing issues, health issues, limited access to education and training, and reuniting with their families to create support systems.