Reading Notes W7: Equiano, Part A

Olaudah Equiano, “The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavus Vassa, the African, Written by Himself” (73-98)

Background:

·         First appeared in 1789

·         Reviewers thought that the story would shift debate about slavery

·         The first autobiography to be written about a slave that was free

·         Was translated into German, Dutch, and Russian

·         Popular to the point that it went through thirty-six editions before 1857

·         Equiano was born about 1745, Niger River Delta area

·         First went into slavery when he was about 11 (he was kidnapped and sold)

·         He dedicated the book to the English Parliament

·         He became the first modern author to go on a book tour

Oluadah Equiano:

·         “I regard myself as a particular favourite of Heaven, and acknowledge the mercies of Providence in every occurrence of my life” (77). A “particular favourite of Heaven” is often looking at someone as humble and such, like how he mentions mercy. Therefore, he is protected by God and at the mercy of God.

·         “Our women too were in my eyes at least uncommonly graceful, alert, and modest to a degree of bashfulness; nor do I remember to have ever heard of an instance of incontinence amongst them before marriage. They are also remarkably cheerful. Indeed cheerfulness and affability are two of the leading characteristics of our nation” (81). Describing the people of his nation. Affability- being easily approachable or friendly. Sees only good in the people of his nation. He also only sees good in his nation in general.

·         “They had been implanted in me with great care, and made an impression on my mind, which time could not erase, and which all the adversity and variety of fortune I have since experienced served only to rivet and record” (86). Throughout all the time and even the sorrow, the good of his nation stuck with him and so did the traditions.

·         “The next day proved an even greater sorrow than I had yet experienced; for my sister and I were then separated, while we lay clasped in each other’s arms” (87). This sentence reflects the many slaves were separated from their families. Equiano was not spared in this separation.

·         “We were then unbound, but were unable to take any food; and, being quite overpowered by fatigue and grief, our only relief was some sleep, which allayed our misfortune for a short time” (87). This shows how slaves were treated; definitely not like a human were they treated. The only way to escape their reality was to go to sleep, which didn’t last very long.