Finish reading Douglass' speech, then choose a group to discuss the speech with. In your group, discuss each of the following questions and then write out thorough and detailed answers for each. Whatever you don't finish in class, we will finish next week. You may hand in one paper per group. Groups should be 2-3 people.

1. Choose two or three of the most important quotations from the speech, write them down, and discuss each one. Write down a few notes for each so that you are prepared to present the quotations to the class.
2. The United States had a tradition of giving commemorative speeches on the Fourth of July, but what kind of speech is Douglass’s? What is the point of his speech (i.e. what is he hoping to persuade his audience of?)—be specific.
3. What ideologies does Douglass use to make his point about slavery? How does he use them?
4. Describe and analyze some of the metaphors that Douglass uses.
5. Analyze Douglass’ use of repetition in the speech. Give several examples and explain how they are effective.
6. What parallels does Douglass use in order to make his points about masters and slaves (i.e. what other relationships does Douglass compare to the master/slave relationship)? And what points does he make through these parallels?
7. Analyze Douglass’ use of irony in the speech.
8. Define pathos, ethos, and logos and discuss (briefly) how Douglass uses each strategy in the speech.
9. What do you think is the most effective aspect of the speech? Explain.