The work that had the biggest impact on me this semester was “Up From Slavery: The Struggle For An Education”, written by Booker T. Washington. This work was written during the Realistic Era. The genre of this work is an autobiography. “Up From Slavery” is so inspiring to me.
One reason it is so inspiring is because Booker T. Washington uses his own life and experiences explaining from his birth into his adulthood. Washington faced many obstacles and challenges in life while trying to get an education. One of the main issues was the search of social advancement for African Americans.
Washington wanted to obtain an education, which he did. Even through the obstacles he faced. Washington mother did not have a lot of money so he worked to save up for school. When Washington arrived at Hampton, he was not able to figure out how to sleep in a bed with two sheets. Apparently he was not use to it and was much less fortunate than the others.
Washington had to continue to work while going to school even though he was not making much. Washington struggled with dressing properly as well. With all that being said, Washington was still dedicated. African Americans had to go through a lot to get and education in the past, that is why it is so inspiring to me when they are able to overcome these stumbling block.
Reading this work make me grateful that I did not have to go through all of this to get an education. Yes there are obstacles I face within the course, but it is no where near the things they had to go through. Washington along with others just encourage me to continue furthering my education. If I have my mind set to do something I know I can do it.
