LAVC David Walker Article Response Urging the Whites to Treat Blacks Better Discussion

I’m working on a literature discussion question and need an explanation to help me understand better.

it will be to post

Post 1

David Walker was mainly appealing to white men in his text by the use of religion. I believe it was effective considering many whites were Christian and Walker used a lot of comparisons to religious characters and using history as well. Forgive me if this comment is ignorant but Walker’s work almost sounds like a sermon. He uses words like “open your heart” and tries to direct focus on Jesus Christ and the Lord and how those who did wrong to others faced some punishment for their cruelty. I feel like he tries to use fear a little bit on their religion to make white men open their eyes. If I were a stubborn pro-slavery religious man I would very well be intrigued and try to do no wrong by the lord and read Walker’s work and understand his message that black men aren’t meant to be treated or seen as the worst. To accept them as brothers and sisters, that they are to be given some sort of humane respect as to at least be seen with a white man, to enjoy and do the things a white man can do freely without being judged. Walker’s work compared to Douglas is in a way similar due to it’s ability to persuade the reader but the audiences it’s meant to capture leaves a difference. Walker’s work mainly appeals to a white man but Douglas’s work appeals more to black men and white men who are towards the abolitionist movement. Both in their own way were compelling but I personally feel that the imagery and emotions in Douglas’s narrative have more affect due to the details of his personal experience.
post 2

I do believe the text is effective in conveying Walker message. I believe the message her is trying to convey is equality in all aspects.Walker was expressing how the slaves should have been treated with respect and like human beings, not animals or property. As stated by Walker, “ America is as much our country,as it is yours–Treat us like men and there is no danger but we will all live in peace and happiness.”

Obviously there are a differences in delivery and narratives of Douglas and Walker. It is difficult to chose one over the other.I don’t find one narrative to be more compelling than the other and it would have to be because they both carried out a message for me. Douglas and Walkers narratives were very expressive on the lives of the slaved. They each provided information on experiences during this time.I do think that Walkers was a bit harder to comprehend and read. I did find Douglas’ to be better understanding and comprehension, relatable.

Reply