Final answer:
Douglass effectively uses parallelism to contrast his beliefs about literacy with those of Mr. Auld, using Mr. Auld's language as a way to demonstrate the oppressive mindset of slaveholders and the transformative power of literacy for enslaved individuals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effect of the parallelism Douglass uses to contrast himself with Mr. Auld is to clearly delineate the stark differences in their perspectives and experiences regarding literacy and its power. By presenting Mr. Auld's viewpoint of literacy as dangerous for enslaved people, juxtaposed with Douglass's realization of literacy as a means of empowerment and resistance, the contrast serves to highlight the oppressiveness of slavery and the potential of education to challenge that system. Douglass's use of Mr. Auld's exact language is a strategic narrative choice, as it brings authenticity to the text and demonstrates the role of literacy in Douglass's life. Moreover, Douglass's sophisticated use of language and his narrative techniques not only convey his own acquisition of literacy but also engage the reader and underscore the broader social implications of literacy during the era of slavery.
Douglass's keen awareness of his rhetorical situation shines through as he addresses an educated audience, using specific diction, dialogue, and detailed descriptions to articulate his message. The importance of literacy is recurrent in Douglass's account, which ultimately shows his struggle against the cultural norms of his time, determined to obtain the 'bread of knowledge' that was forbidden to him and his peers.