The nature of African American female slavery as reflected in three slave narratives : 'The narrative of sojourner truth,' Harriet Jacobs' 'Incidents in the life of a slave girl,' and Annie Burton's 'Memories of childhood's slavery days

Abstract

While attempting to explore the African American literary tradition, I was soon challenged with an embarrassment of riches. Given the various autobiographical works, the most difficult task was struggling to determine which ones to exploit. Above all, the more influential works in the female autobiographical literary genre prevail in this dissertation. I am aware of the complexity of generalizing about such an extensive period of time, and the range of scenarios across different types of plantations and slave households. Hence, I rely on the work of historians and critics with their diverse views to present a generic picture of female slave life from which I endeavor to develop my study of narratives and literature. The narratives discussed during this period of American history are The Narrative of Sojourner Truth (1850), Harriet Jacobs' 'Incidents in the Life of A Slave Girl' (1861), and Annie Louise Burton's 'Memories of Childhood's Slavery Days' (1909). Essentially, I have selected three texts, which seem emblematic of a legacy of slavery and gender conventions. The first chapter, "Toward Discovering Black Women's History," begins by analyzing how race, history, and enslavement affected female slaves' conception of their gender. Upon arrival in the colonies, slaves were not blank slates; they brought knowledge of various African traditions that were eventually combined to American traditions and their frequent barring from these traditions based on racial difference. Although Sojourner Truth's narrative appeals as a personal drama, it is even more compelling as a moral and spiritual quest. This study aims to highlight Truth's own resilient spirit that serves to lift a world of oppression. Religious' enthusiasm stirred within her. A new woman with a new name, Sojourner Truth's mission was no longer to labor for a slave-owner, but to serve her people and her God. The effect of slavery on gender is significantly evident in the realm of maternity.