Frederick Douglass’ Numerous Renditions of His Narrative Displayed at SIUE
 |
 |
Several publications of a critical work from one of the country’s most notable social reformers, orators, abolitionists and ex-slaves were displayed at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville.
“I thought it was important to highlight some images of multiple editions of Frederick Douglass’s Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave from my personal collection,” said Howard Rambsy, PhD, associate professor in the Department of English Language and Literature.
Rambsy’s collection included 10 exhibit panels and was displayed Thursday, Feb. 11 in the Elijah P. Lovejoy Library Friends Corner.
“The idea was to give audiences a sense of how a variety of publishers have sought to re-present Douglass’s book over the decades,” Rambsy said. “I hoped that people could also become more aware of the art of book production. I believe that many students looking at the exhibit realized that Douglass’s autobiography is an important “cultural artifact.”
“Although Douglass is one of our most revered writers, there’s been less discussion of the fascinating publishing history of his Narrative,” Rambsy continued. “Douglass was remarkable, and modern-day publishers, teachers and readers have ensured that he will remain a prominent force in our cultural and intellectual lives.”
Central to SIUE’s exceptional and comprehensive education, the College of Arts and Sciences has 19 departments and 85 areas of study. More than 300 full-time faculty/instructors deliver classes to more than 8,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Faculty help students explore diverse ideas and experiences, while learning to think and live as fulfilled, productive members of the global community. Study abroad, service-learning, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities better prepare SIUE students not only to succeed in our region's workplaces, but also to become valuable leaders who make important contributions to our communities.
Photos:
Students observe Dr. Howard Rambsy’s display of Frederick Douglass’s Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass.
Marquis Miles, a freshman Exercise Science major, takes note of one item on the display.
