53 pages • 1 hour read
Frederick DouglassWhat to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?
Nonfiction | Essay / Speech | Adult | Published in 1852A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Essay Topics
Throughout the speech, Douglass continues to reference the United States Constitution. In what ways do these references support Douglass’s overall arguments? Explain using specific evidence from the speech.
One of the strongest images that Douglass refers to several times is a storm. What function does this imagery serve in regards to the larger purposes of the speech? Why would Douglass use this particular image? Examine using specific moments in the text.
The most famous moment of this speech occurs when Douglass states the titular question: “What, to the American slave, is your 4th of July?” Look at this passage more closely. What is interesting about the rhetoric Douglass uses when he presents these central points of his speech? Explain in detail.
Douglass specifically addresses two branches of American society in his speech: the government and the church. Explore the specific usefulness of these two arguments in light of Douglass’s larger thesis. Use evidence to support your analysis.
Though Douglass eventually builds a robust argument against slavery, the opening of his speech has a different tone. Investigate the opening pages of the speech: What rhetorical choices does Douglass make in the beginning? What purpose do these choices serve?
One of the central threads of Douglass’s speech is the hypocrisy of American values. Analyze the development of this argument using specific quotes from the speech.
Douglass’ concluding epigraph in his speech is taken from William Lloyd Garrison, an abolitionist who Douglass greatly admired. Research Douglass’s relationship with Garrison and analyze how this particular passage influences the course of the speech overall.
Related Titles
By Frederick Douglass
