Final answer:
Frederick Douglass's autobiography 'Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave' showcases his command over his narrative through his personal experiences and eloquent articulation, making a persuasive argument against slavery while targeting an educated audience.
Step-by-step explanation:
Frederick Douglass and His Commanding Autobiography
The narratives and autobiography of Frederick Douglass provide a compelling and authoritative perspective on the horrors and injustices of slavery. Douglass indeed commands authority not only due to his personal experiences as a former slave but also because of his eloquent articulation and profound insights about the period of slavery. His autobiography, 'Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, An American Slave', stands out as a testament to his literary prowess and his skill as a narrator. We understand from the context of the time that Douglass's choices in content for his Narrative were influenced by the fact that slavery was still legal and widespread in the United States. This made his work not just a personal reflection but also a strategic argument against the institution of slavery. Additionally, Douglass's descriptions of his life and his quest for literacy reveal an understanding of the deeper harm that slavery inflicted on society, both on the slaves and slaveholders. His ability to write for an educated audience despite limited opportunities further emphasizes his command over the narrative. Moreover, his acute awareness of his audience and the historical context further adds to the effectiveness of his account.