The Interesting Narrative of Olaudah Equiano Flashcards
When was The Interesting Narrative published?
1789
When did the slave trade end in England?
1807
What was Equiano’s main objective in writing this work?
Trying to raise awareness of slave conditions and increase support for the abolitionist movement in England.
Through what method was this book published?
By subscription
Discuss the significance of the subscriber list to Equiano’s publication.
The book was successful upon its initial publication, so the subscriber list for subsequent editions grew and grew over time as Equiano traveled to promote the book. It became a de facto petition to the Queen to end slavery.
What are three 18th century authors whose style influenced Equiano?
- Defoe (Adventure story/religious themes)
- Rowlandson (Captivity narrative)
- Franklin (rags to riches story)
What is the traditional structure of this work?
Conversion Narrative
Mirrors the move from slavery to freedom
What textual feature attests to some of the prejudices held at the time of publication?
Like Jacobs’ “Incident in the Life of a Slave Girl,” Equiano’s text begins with several letters from prominent WHITE members of society attesting to his good standing and the truth of his narrative. They had to “prove” that they were competent and trustworthy, which a white author would not.
Who is Equiano’s first master?
Michael Henry Pascal, a Navy captain. Equiano spends many years with him at sea. Equiano believes they have a good relationship, but Pascal double crosses him after Equiano tries to get his fair share of the spoils for participating in the Seven Years’ War (French/Indian War).
When did Equiano purchase his freedom?
July 1766
What happens to Equiano’s sister?
Though they are kidnapped together as children, they are soon separated. They see each other again while in Africa, but after that are parted forever.
Who does Doran sell Equiano to?
Robert King, the “benevolent” Quaker master
Who is Equiano’s friend that first begins to teach him how to read?
Richard “Dick” Baker
What is Equiano’s treatment in Savannah?
Very poor - the experience of slavery here is even worse than many other places. He is once severely beaten for visiting the house of a slave friend.
What is the European name Olaudah was given while a slave?
Gustavus Vassa
He initially protested this change, but accepted it after being beaten.
What religious denomination was particularly active in the cause of abolition, and to which Equiano later converted?
Methodism
Discuss Equiano’s cultural identity.
More than any Afro-British writer before him, Equiano’s narrative insists on his British-ness. He is African AND British (cultural, political, religious, and social values).
Many authorities also doubt that Equiano was actually born in Africa - there is compelling evidence that he was born in South Carolina.
When did Equiano die?
1797 (so he did not live to see the Trade abolished)
What is Equiano’s African nationality?
Igbo
To who in his family is Equiano particularly close?
His mother
What are the four stages of the African slave trade (all of which are represented in The Interesting Narrative)?
1) the capture by native Africans, and the dangerous, exhausting journey to the European ships waiting at the coast;
2) the Middle Passage, in which slaves were transported across the Atlantic in the most hellish conditions imaginable;
3) the gradual introduction to a life of forced labor and a disease-ridden environment, after slaves arrive in the West Indies but before they are put to work;
4) and the actual period of enslavement.
Where does Pascal purchase Equiano?
Virginia
Who were the primary combatants in the Seven Years’ War?
Britain and America
What trope about reading appears in The Interesting Narrative?
The Talking Book
