Incidents In the Life of a Slave Girl
-
-
4.7 • 899 Ratings
-
Publisher Description
Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl
An Apple Books Classic edition.
Harriet Jacobs was born into slavery on a North Carolina estate, where she remained for the first six years of her life. Harriet and her mother served the mistress of the house, who taught Harriet to read and write and promised the enslaved girl freedom. That promise was broken when Harriet was sold into worse circumstances. She went on to have two children with a white man in the hopes of staving off the attentions of her cruel master, but when her plan backfired, Harriet decided to save her children by risking her own life—and running.
Published in 1861, Jacobs’ autobiography captured what life was like for a fugitive: always afraid, always on the move…for years. Hers is one of the first such accounts written by a woman, offering an intimate perspective on the dehumanizing horrors inflicted upon enslaved women. Jacobs’ autobiography helped mobilize many people to the growing abolitionist movement, and the book shows why Jacobs is considered not only an important abolitionist but also a feminist. Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl deepens our understanding of slavery’s legacy.
Customer Reviews
Sad yet so beautiful
This is probably the greatest book I ever read concerning slave life during the 1800s. Well worth the read even if your not interested in slave history. This book really forces you to consider your own character and respect the amazing ability humans have to tolerate hardship and tribulation.
A portrait of fortitude and perseverance
An incredible read and insight into the experiences and mind of a woman brought up in slavery who fought for freedom for her and her children. A portrait of fortitude and perseverance. These first hand accounts and reported incidents retold may not be surprising to read at this point of knowing American history, but doesn’t make these occurrence any less heartbreaking to read. It’s not stories of inhumanity that make this a captivating read, but Ms, Jacobs mindset.
Eye opening.
Why was this never taught in school? It is too shameful, that’s why. An amazing account of life for a slave girl. After having visited the south and it’s plantations and museums, I felt compelled to learn more. So glad I have read this, it changes my perspective greatly.
More Books Like This
More Books by Harriet Jacobs