Harriet, the 2019 biopic depicting the life of Harriet Tubman, is a powerfully dramatic interpretation of an extraordinary woman’s fight for freedom. While the film captures the core essence of Tubman’s courage and determination, it takes certain creative liberties for narrative effect, leading to a mixed bag of historical accuracy.
The Core Truth and Necessary Dramatization
The film undeniably succeeds in portraying the brutal realities of slavery and the immense risks associated with escaping to freedom. It captures the sheer physical and mental fortitude required of Tubman, her unwavering faith, and her growing reputation as “Moses,” the conductor leading her people to the promised land of the North. However, historical accounts and scholarly analysis reveal areas where the film deviates from strict historical documentation, primarily in its portrayal of specific characters and timelines. It’s important to remember that biopics, by their nature, often condense timelines and create composite characters to streamline the story and enhance emotional impact. The question then becomes: does Harriet sacrifice too much accuracy in service of its dramatic narrative? This depends on one’s expectations. Is it a historically faithful documentary? No. Is it a powerful and inspiring portrayal of a vital American figure with some artistic licenses taken? Largely, yes.
Key Areas of Historical Deviation and Accuracy
Tubman’s Escape and Initial Freedom
The film generally adheres to the known facts of Harriet Tubman’s escape in 1849. Her motivations, her fears, and the arduous journey northward are depicted with relative fidelity, based on historical accounts. The dangers faced by runaway slaves and the complexities of navigating the Underground Railroad are presented powerfully.
The Character of Marie Buchanan
The character of Marie Buchanan, a free black woman portrayed as both a friend and romantic interest, is arguably the film’s most significant invention. While free black communities existed in the North and aided fugitive slaves, there’s no historical evidence to suggest a romantic relationship between Tubman and a woman named Marie. This character serves to personalize the Underground Railroad network and provide Tubman with emotional support, but it should be viewed as a fictional addition.
Gideon Brodess and the Slave-Owning Family
The portrayal of the Brodess family, particularly Gideon Brodess, the son of Eliza Brodess (the enslaver of Harriet), is another area where the film takes liberties. Gideon’s pursuit of Tubman is dramatized, and his character arc is somewhat simplified. While the Brodess family undoubtedly sought to recapture Tubman, the intensity and personal nature of Gideon’s obsession, as portrayed in the film, may be exaggerated for dramatic effect.
Tubman’s “Visions” and Religious Beliefs
The film emphasizes Tubman’s strong religious faith and her visions, which she interpreted as guidance from God. These visions played a significant role in her life and provided her with the confidence to navigate the dangerous routes of the Underground Railroad. The film accurately reflects the spiritual dimension of Tubman’s life, but it is important to acknowledge that the exact nature and frequency of these visions are subject to interpretation and religious belief.
The Importance of Context and Critical Engagement
Ultimately, Harriet should be viewed as a dramatic interpretation of Harriet Tubman’s life, not a definitive historical document. It’s crucial to approach the film with a critical eye, recognizing the areas where artistic license has been employed. While the film might not be perfectly accurate in every detail, it serves as a powerful introduction to Tubman’s extraordinary story and can inspire viewers to delve deeper into the historical record. Understanding the context of historical filmmaking and the constraints involved is key to appreciating both the artistic value and the potential limitations of Harriet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
H3: 1. Did Harriet Tubman really have visions or premonitions?
Yes, historical accounts and Tubman’s own words suggest she experienced visions or premonitions, which she attributed to divine guidance. She often relied on these “signs” to navigate the Underground Railroad and make critical decisions. However, the specific details and interpretations of these experiences remain within the realm of personal faith and belief.
H3: 2. Was Marie Buchanan a real person in Harriet Tubman’s life?
No, Marie Buchanan is a fictional character created for the film. While free black women in the North undoubtedly supported the Underground Railroad and offered aid to fugitive slaves, there’s no historical evidence to support a romantic relationship between Tubman and someone named Marie Buchanan.
H3: 3. How many trips did Harriet Tubman make to the South to rescue slaves?
Harriet Tubman is estimated to have made approximately 19 trips to the South, leading around 300 people to freedom. The exact number is difficult to ascertain definitively due to the clandestine nature of her work.
H3: 4. What were some of the real dangers Harriet Tubman faced while rescuing slaves?
Tubman faced constant threats of capture, both for herself and the people she was guiding. These dangers included bounty hunters, slave patrols, starvation, exposure to the elements, and the risk of betrayal by informants. The Underground Railroad operated in secrecy, and the consequences of being caught were severe, often resulting in torture, imprisonment, or death.
H3: 5. How historically accurate is the portrayal of slavery in Harriet?
The film accurately depicts the brutality and dehumanization inherent in the institution of slavery. The scenes of violence, forced labor, and the separation of families are consistent with historical accounts and scholarly research. While some specific instances might be dramatized, the overall portrayal reflects the horrific realities of enslaved people’s lives.
H3: 6. Did Harriet Tubman carry a gun?
Yes, historical accounts suggest that Harriet Tubman carried a gun for protection and to ensure the success of her missions. She reportedly used it to motivate reluctant or fearful individuals, as turning back could endanger the entire group.
H3: 7. What was the Underground Railroad?
The Underground Railroad was not an actual railroad, but a network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to freedom in the North and Canada. It was organized by abolitionists and sympathetic individuals who provided shelter, food, and guidance to fugitive slaves.
H3: 8. What happened to the Brodess family after Harriet Tubman escaped?
Details about the Brodess family’s fate after Tubman’s escape are limited. However, historical records indicate that they continued to operate their plantation in Maryland. The film’s depiction of Gideon Brodess’s obsession with recapturing Tubman, while serving dramatic purposes, should be viewed with a degree of historical skepticism.
H3: 9. Besides rescuing slaves, what else did Harriet Tubman do?
In addition to her work on the Underground Railroad, Harriet Tubman served as a spy, scout, and nurse for the Union Army during the Civil War. She also led the Combahee River Raid, a military operation that freed over 700 enslaved people. After the war, she continued to advocate for civil rights and women’s suffrage.
H3: 10. Where did Harriet Tubman eventually settle?
Harriet Tubman eventually settled in Auburn, New York, where she established a home for the elderly and indigent. She dedicated her later years to helping others and continued to be a voice for social justice.
H3: 11. How did Harriet Tubman get the nickname “Moses”?
Harriet Tubman earned the nickname “Moses” because she led her people out of slavery, just as the biblical Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt. This moniker reflects her courage, leadership, and her role as a liberator.
H3: 12. What is the lasting legacy of Harriet Tubman?
Harriet Tubman’s lasting legacy lies in her unwavering commitment to freedom, her extraordinary courage in the face of adversity, and her tireless dedication to helping others. She is remembered as one of the most significant figures in American history, a symbol of resilience, and an inspiration to generations of activists and freedom fighters. Her story continues to resonate today, reminding us of the importance of fighting for justice and equality for all.