Edward Covey

"Write about anything having to do with the book that interested about which you did not get to write or discuss yet." 

     Edward Covey was very important in Douglass' life and escape from slavery. Covey was a poor farmer that was known in the community for being a "n***** breaker." This reputation was very important to him. Douglass was sent to Covey in the 1830's so that Covey would "Break his spirit." Covey would often beat and whip these slaves for long periods of time. The turning point in Douglass' life was when he defended himself from Covey. The interesting thing is, Covey did not punish Douglass' or have him sent away. Covey needed to maintain his reputation to avoid embarrassment, and didn't beat Douglass again. Even so, it's surprising to me that Covey didn't find a way to punish Douglass without letting others know about his previous defeat in the fight. The only reasoning I can find behind this is that since Douglass wasn't his slave, only loaned to him, he couldn't kill him, or it was just easier for Covey to let Douglass maintain his dominance. I believe this win for Douglass was a great motivation for him and it made him feel more powerful.