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The narrative titled, “A Narrative of the Captivity and Restoration of Mrs. Mary Rowlandson,” written by Mary Rowlandson is closely related to the narrative titled, “The interesting Narrative of the Life of Olaudah Equiano, or Gustavvas Vassa”, written by Olaudah Equaiano. Both narratives talk about captivity, the struggles of being held a prisoner, and the everyday emotions that each character goes through. Each of the narratives dives into the theme of Self vs. Other; however, each one takes a different look or view between racial and cultural difference. Each other also focuses on different aspects of faith and the impact that it has on the characters captivity experiences.
By diving into the authors own experiences the theme of self vs. other is strongly expressed in both narratives. Rowlandson’s experience begins with her capture of her and her children; however, throughout the entire narrative she is fighting her faith, who she is, and the captors. She talks about having to deal with the vanity of this world stating, “I have seen the extreme vanity of this world: One hour I have been in health and wealthy, wanting nothing. But the next hour in sickness and wounds, and death, having nothing but sorrow and affliction.” (Rowlandson, 288) Rowlandson had to battle the vain in the world that had taught her a certain way to believe and have faith; however, this battle created a way for her to find herself and better understand the power faith could have on her and her family. The trial allowed Rowlandson to truly know, “…what affliction meant…” which allowed Rowlandson the ability to conquer the view of self vs. other. Rowlandson became independent on her abilities, her faith, and her own qualities. Olaudah Equiano shows the the...

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...onal connection with each other that enables the feeling of empathy. Through each narrative the differences, as well as the similarities, establish the beginning of what is in today’s world and how people have changed. Each of the narratives were created for a purpose and as the themes, differences, and faith is established the purposes are expressed as the author allows each and every person reading to dive into their trials and afflictions. Through the captivation of the reading audience, there is the question of what is our own faith, hope, and view of self vs. other? Though captors and slaves or not prevalent in today’s day and age, there is still other items that can capture our thoughts and mind and lead us into a captivity that brings about trials and afflictions. Is faith and hope the answer to these afflictions? Does faith and hope make afflictions easier?

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