ugh a ghost writer, losing the edge of first hand accounts. Because of the quality of the content, some abolitionists, and many slaveowners, refused to believe the validity of the experiences of the man in the slim novel. However, the autobiography came authenticated with a “Preface” by Garrison, and a “Letter” by Wendell Philips. The subject matter remains fascinating. Douglass’s lengthy passages about the psychological effects of slavery reflect years of careful thought and observation. His blunt descriptions of the negative repercussions of slavery upon the slaveholder’s minds created a stir against the animal nature and “savage barbarity” (30) which he describes. The fatal poison of irresponsible power was already in her hands, and soon commenced its infernal work. That cheerful eye, under the influence of slavery, soon became red with rage; that voice, made all of sweet accord, changed to one of harsh and horrid discord; and that angelic face gave place to that of a demon (37). This continuing observance of the distortion of innocents provides a fresh look at people previously passed off as mean spirited. The idea that slavery transformed the master from good to evil and not vice versa also places the blame on the institution, not the owners. Douglass’s new subject matter, the mental side effects of slavery, gives the reader “food for thought”. The author causes the reader to think about the true cause of the cruelty inherent in slavery. He forces this new thought upon the reader because of his presentation of new ideas. After helping Douglass publish his first autobiography, abolitionists such as Wendell Philips urged the public “to hate slavery” (“Letter”, 11), but not the slaveowner. Pushing his point across, Douglass reinforces his naturalistic idea that the environment of oppression corrupts even kindly masters. With other examples of kin...
