Education and Human Freedom

"In the autobiography, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, how is education related to human freedom?"



      During Douglass' autobiography, he speaks about he and other slaves were not allowed to receive an education. In the book, Douglass describes how his ability to read led him to reading abolitionist papers and learning about freedom. One specific moment in the book which was very important was when he was denied further education from Mrs. Auld by Mr. Auld. By restricting a slave's education and keeping him less knowledgable, they were more easily able to deceive and control their slaves. From the experience with the Auld's he became motivated to learn more. Douglass' education gave him a greater awareness and understanding of the world, which led him to escape slavery. With this education, he learned about slavery and freedom in the North.