Question

Equiano speaks of having to fan one of his first European masters, and then of looking around the room in amazement after the man fell asleep. What did Equiano think of the portrait in his first white master's home?

Answer 1

Equiano saw the portrait in his first white master's home as a symbol of vanity and self-importance, and possibly a hidden darkness or inner turmoil.

Step-by-step explanation:

Equiano thought of the portrait in his first white master's home as being a symbol of the man's vanity and self-importance. He describes the painter looking at the portrait with pleasure before suddenly starting up and placing his fingers on his closed eyes as if trying to hold onto a dream. Equiano's description suggests that the portrait reflected the master's desire for admiration and status, but also hinted at a hidden darkness or inner turmoil.