Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass · Chapter
Endnotes explained
The endnotes provide brief clarifications and additional context regarding specific references in the narrative, including the identity of the man who gave Douglass roots to prevent whipping, the status of a woman mentioned as free, Douglas
What happens
The endnotes provide brief clarifications and additional context regarding specific references in the narrative, including the identity of the man who gave Douglass roots to prevent whipping, the status of a woman mentioned as free, Douglass's name change from Bailey to Johnson, and the employment opportunities for colored persons in New Bedford as a result of anti-slavery efforts.
Themes in this chapter
Resistance and Agency
The fight with Covey and the use of roots reflect both physical and superstitious forms of resistance against oppression.
Characters to notice
- Sandy Jenkins
The man who gave Douglass roots to prevent being whipped by Mr. Covey, and who claimed Douglass's success in the fight with Covey was due to those roots.
- Frederick Douglass
Changed his name from Frederick Bailey to Johnson.
- Edward Covey
Referenced in connection with the fight and the roots given by Sandy Jenkins.
Key passages
“This is the same man who gave me the roots to prevent my being whipped by Mr. Covey.”
This refers to the man who provided me with roots intended to protect me from being whipped by Mr. Covey.
Identifies Sandy Jenkins as the source of the protective roots.
“I had changed my name from Frederick Bailey to that of Johnson.”
I had adopted the surname Johnson in place of my original name, Frederick Bailey.
Documents Douglass's name change after escaping slavery.
“I am told that colored persons can now get employment at calking in New Bedford—a result of anti-slavery effort.”
I have heard that African Americans are now able to find work as calkers in New Bedford, thanks to the progress made by the anti-slavery movement.
Highlights the positive impact of abolitionist activism on employment opportunities.