The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano · Theme
Hypocrisy of Civilization
How The Interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano develops Hypocrisy of Civilization.
Equiano contrasts the 'civilized' European nations' claims to humanity, arts, and sciences with their brutal participation in the slave trade, exposing the moral contradictions of the Enlightenment era.
Where it surfaces
- IV
Despite his master's kindness, Equiano is ultimately betrayed and sold back into slavery.
- V
Equiano contrasts the professed Christianity and humanity of slaveholders with their cruel and rapacious actions.
- Chapter VI
The chapter exposes the hypocrisy of colonial society, where laws and customs deny justice to free Black people and forbid interracial marriage in church, yet permit it on the water.
- VII
The false accusations and legal harassment by Mr. Read, and the ongoing impositions on free Black people even after Equiano gains his freedom.
- Chapter VIII
The watchmen who accept Equiano's hospitality then arrest him for having a light after curfew, and the two white men who attempt to kidnap him, expose the hypocrisy and injustice of colonial society.
- Chapter XI
Equiano criticizes bull-baiting on Sundays in Malaga and the cruel, blasphemous behavior of captains, contrasting professed Christianity with immoral actions.
- Chapter XII: Different Transactions of the Author's Life Till the Present Time
Equiano exposes corruption and neglect by the agent in the Sierra Leone expedition, highlighting the mistreatment of the Black Poor.