Around the time of Benjamin’s Banneker’s letter to Thomas Jefferson, a race such as Banneker’s was considered a brute. In 1791 this was a contradiction because Benjamin’s states “afforded the same sensation and endowed us all with the same faculties” (Banneker1). In other words every being was created with the same endowments. Therefore if African Americans where brutes, that would only mean every other race are to. Back in those times I'm sure it was controversial as to whether or not African Americans were brutes, and not considered the same as every one else like those who had enslaved/ mistreated them.
Joel, I liked where your analysis was going pertaining to Banneker's letter to Jefferson. However, I would have enjoyed reviewing a more extensive response to it as a reader. Also, remember you are addressing a broad audience, so context and symmetrization are two extremely important aspects that could be more concentrated on. "Brute" seems to be your key word, which is great. I was able to get a sense about the argument you were trying to make just by knowing the definition of that word and your words surrounding it. This assignment was about contradiction, but I believe the contradiction you are trying to relay could be more clearly described. I think you have a great start, but would definitely suggest revising your blog so to make for a more clear and easier understanding.
ReplyDelete