A critical examination of literature from an Anglo-Saxon tradition reveals common themes, whereby protagonists who resist a dominant pressure, whether it be physical or social, receive death or destruction. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of this Anglocentric worldview on slave literature of 18th century England. Research reveals that this literature depicts a need for hegemonic social institutions to recognize the humanity of slaves, promoting benevolence and charity according to the teachings of Christ. While slave narratives reveal an additional, yet subtle, protest against the evils of slavery, these works ultimately reflect a bias designed to target English readers. Although the use of music and dance by slaves is not often used within literature of the period, it has become embedded within later African-American compositions, revealing an individualistic means to escape hardship, share feelings of injustice, and promote a sense of freedom.