see sample answer below

This beginning reinforces his point because the document discusses independence and Douglass is discussing how black people do not have this same independence.

see sample answer below

a) Two biblical allusions that Douglass makes include the line “Standing with God and the crushed and bleeding slave on this occasion…”(Douglass, paragraph 4) and “When the dogs in your streets, when the fowls of the air, when the cattle on your hills, when the fish of the sea, and the reptiles that crawl…” (Douglass, paragraph 5).
b) The biblical allusions are a great addition to this text by Douglass because he knows who is audience is. His audience is generally a Christian audience and will gravitate and understand the biblical references which will help Douglass convince his audience of his argument because it gives them something recognizable to hold onto.

see sample answer below

a) Douglass’s diction is harsh, severe, and truthful. This is suited for his audience who does not understand the struggles and viewpoint he is explaining.
b) This would be very effective for a modern audience because it is intense and passionate.

see sample answer below

Douglass probably spoke so harshly because the topic is serious and frustrating and he wants to be heard in a world where his voice is constantly silenced. This may be why he spoke harshly even to people who were on his side.

see sample answer below

Douglass’s perspective is very similar to the perspective of people today, which is disheartening and upsetting that we have not made as much progress as we may want to think.