The two former slaves provided their accounts of life under the fierce claws of the slave masters. The basis of their artistry is deemed as the most significant literary account of the slavery. They shared numerous experiences as well as disparities in the manner they were handled and their constant struggles to freedom.
Comparison
Both Douglas and Jacobs were subjected to hard labor. In what was characteristic of slavery, the two had similar experiences in their slave lives. As part of the barbaric treatment of slaves, their masters sent them to hard labor (Ernest, 49). Douglas Fredrick is sent to Baltimore where he experiences the reality of slavery in the hands of a new master as asserted in the piece “Narrative of the Life of Douglas Fredrick.” He is overworked in the plantations just like his counterparts. Similarly, Jacobs is also sent to hard labor in the plantations. She experiences harsh conditions in the hands of an unrepentant slave master. In the book “Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl,” she gives the accounts of her suffering.
Additionally, they are taught to read in the hands of their masters. Uncharacteristic of slavery, both protagonists get a little education while in the custody of their absolute masters (Ernest, 50). Douglas is taught to read by the master’s wife, Sophia Auld while Jacobs is cared for by her mistress Margaret.
Contrasts
While Douglas fought for his freedom, Jacobs could not engage her master in a physical fight. In his quest for freedom, Douglas first engages Covey, known for brutality and ruthlessness, in a fierce fight until he gives up (Ernest, 150). He then declares total war against masters who dare treat him like an animal. On the contrary, Jacobs gives her quest a patient approach by only plotting to escape rather than engage in physical fights.
Moreover, Jacobs experiences sexual abuses at the hands of her draconian owner while Jacob is only subject to psychological and physical assault. In the hands of Covey, he suffers both mental and physical setbacks. On the contrary, Jacobs is treated to cruel acts of sexual violence and aggression by Dr. Norcom (Ernest, 250).
Work Cited
Ernest, John. The Oxford Handbook of the African American Slave Narrative. Oxford University Press, USA, (2014): 49-250.
