The original CliffsNotes study guides offer expert commentary on major themes, plots, characters, literary devices, and historical background. The latest generation of titles in this series also feature glossaries and visual elements that complement the classic, familiar format. With help from CliffsNotes on Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl, you explore the first book–length narrative by an ex–slave that reveals the unique brutalities inflicted on enslaved African women in the South. The chapter summaries and commentaries in this study guide expose you to a harrowing story of degradation and sexual exploitation; the struggle for freedom and self–definition; community and family; and writing as a means of freedom. Other features that help you study include An in–depth look at the life of the author, Harriet A. Jacobs Character analyses of major players A character map that graphically illustrates the relationships among the characters Critical essays Glossaries of key words and terms A review section that tests your knowledge Classic literature or modern modern–day treasure — you′ll understand it all with expert information and insight from CliffsNotes study guides.