Final answer:
Olaudah Equiano includes details of the appalling conditions on slave ships in his personal narrative to convey the dehumanizing and brutal nature of the transatlantic slave trade and to elicit empathy and understanding from his readers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Equiano includes vivid details of the unbearable conditions on slave ships, such as the galling of chains and the filth of the necessary tubs, to provide a visceral and authentic account of the inhumane treatment endured by enslaved Africans during the transatlantic crossing. By describing the physical discomfort and suffering, Equiano aims to evoke a sense of empathy and outrage among his readers, compelling them to recognize the moral reprehensibility of the slave trade.
These specific details serve as a stark portrayal of the degradation and dehumanization experienced by the enslaved individuals, reinforcing the urgency for abolition and societal change. Equiano strategically employs such details not merely as a means of personal expression but as a powerful rhetorical device to galvanize public opinion against the horrors of the slave trade. In essence, the inclusion of these details serves a didactic purpose, urging readers to confront the harsh realities of the transatlantic slave trade and question the morality of such practices.
Overall, Equiano's narrative becomes a compelling tool for advocacy, challenging societal norms and fostering a collective sense of responsibility for ending the systemic brutality of the slave trade.