Back to Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave
From "Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave" by Douglass, Frederick
Hugh Auld
Douglass's master in Baltimore, Sophia Auld's husband.
Core Belief
"Slaves should be kept ignorant and subservient to prevent them from challenging the system of slavery."
Worldview
A world where social hierarchy is essential, and the education of slaves is a dangerous threat to that order.
Personality
Initially less overtly cruel than other slaveholders, Hugh Auld is pragmatic and concerned with maintaining control. He recognizes the threat that education poses to the institution of slavery.
In Their Own Words
"If you give a nigger an inch, he will take an ell."
"A nigger should know nothing but to obey his master—to do as he is told to do. Learning would spoil the best nigger in the world."
Other Characters from Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave
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