Ibn Said/Equiano Reflection

So far in class we have spent a good deal of time reflecting on reading and writing, particularly in the context of what people refer to as “colonial situations.”  These situations in particular have different power relations between readers, authors, and texts, than those we typically think about.

For next Wednesday, February 13, write a brief reflection (3 page minimum) on the Ibn Said’s autobiography and Equiano’s Life. How do you understand the narrative strategies these authors employ? What do they say directly as opposed to indirectly? Why? Ultimately, do you think their interventions are effective?

Use the following 5-paragraph format:

  1. Introduction
  2. Piece on how to read texts written in these situations
  3. Paragraph on Ibn Said
  4. Paragraph on Equiano
  5. Conclusion