Essay alert: At the beginning of Black History Month in America, I strongly recommend Zadie Smith's review of an updated reissue of Black England by Gretchen Gerzina. I admit I haven't read the book; but the review by itself, with its probe of complexities, is so thoughtful that it can stand alone.
Picturing a World
Zadie Smith on how to read history
Comments
Feb 04, 2023 10:33 AM EST
https://www.france24.com/en/20140430-black-aristocrat-belle-assante-slavery-movie
Hi Katherine, this is a link to a film I remember seeing in 2014, called "Belle."
The painting on the cover is Dido Elizabeth Belle, an 18th-century aristocrat, orphaned and brought up in Lord Mansfield's household.
He was Chief Justice of England. Dido's presence in his life, helped him see the need to end slavery.
If you're interested in seeing it, I don't know if the film can be seen on YouTube for free or Amazon to rent.
I just wanted to pass the information on to you. It's a beautiful film.
Cheers,
Pat
- Patricia Franzino
Reply by Katherine on Feb 04, 2023 10:41 AM EST
Wonderful tip! Thank you. I haven't seen it but I seem to remember reading about it.
Cheers.