Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl: Written by Herself [B1186]

2019 PB in excellent condition. In this volume, former Harvard (now Adelphi University) Professor Jennifer Fleischner examines Harriet Jacobs's 1861 autobiography, the first- and best-known female account of life under, and escape from, slavery. In her introduction, Fleischner shows how Jacobs used the written word to liberate herself and promote the end of slavery by carefully discussing her sexual exploitation as a slave in ways that would inspire sympathy in ? and not offend ? her Victorian white, middle-class, female audience. An updated introduction explores Jacobs' personal struggles with religion and violent resistance, and connects her narrative to the broader history of the anti-slavery movement in the United States. The rich collection of related documents that accompany Jacobs' complete narrative features three new sources, including the will of Jacobs' owner Margaret Horniblow, the abolitionist emblem, and the original title page of Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl. Updated document head notes, chronology, questions for consideration, selected bibliography, and index provide students with a valuable framework for understanding this period in United States history.

Note: Various editions of Harriet Jacobs's autobiography have appeared on Banned Book lists.

From recent Amazon/GoodReads reviews: "A powerful and emotional read that gives a deeply personal look into the horrors of slavery, especially for women. Harriet Jacobs tells her story with honesty and courage, showing the strength it took to survive and protect her children. Her voice is strong, clear, and unforgettable."; "This autobiography was first published in 1861 (using pseudonyms) and reprinted in the 1970s. Scholars initially doubted it was written by a slave. Thankfully, Harvard University Press authenticated and published findings in the 1980s, and Jean Fagan Yellin, Harriet Jacobs' biographer, dug up proof of the authenticity of this autobiography through letters and documents."; "A snapshot of time that is painful to remember yet we must never forget. Heavy piece to read, but worth every minute spent."; "The evils of slavery and how it spreads like a terminal disease to every person involved come to life in this humble autobiography. Harriet Jacob's was courageous and wise. It is an honor to have read her story."