The 2019 biographical drama film Harriet, directed by Kasi Lemmons, tells the extraordinary story of Harriet Tubman, an African American abolitionist who escaped slavery and went on to become a conductor on the Underground Railroad, helping hundreds of enslaved people achieve freedom. Given its historical significance and educational value, many educators and parents are wondering if Harriet is suitable for school settings. In this article, we will delve into the film’s content, its potential impact on students, and provide guidance on whether it is appropriate for school.
Introduction to Harriet Tubman and the Film
Harriet Tubman was a true American hero who dedicated her life to fighting against slavery and inequality. Born into slavery around 1822, she experienced the brutal realities of enslavement firsthand. Her courageous escape from slavery and subsequent work on the Underground Railroad have made her an iconic figure in American history. The film Harriet brings her remarkable story to life, starring Cynthia Erivo as the titular character. The movie follows Harriet’s journey from her days as an enslaved person in Maryland to her becoming a prominent figure in the abolitionist movement.
Historical Accuracy and Educational Value
One of the primary reasons educators and parents might consider showing Harriet in a school setting is its historical accuracy and educational value. The film takes creative liberties with some aspects of Harriet Tubman’s life, but it remains largely faithful to the historical record. The movie’s portrayal of slavery, the Underground Railroad, and the abolitionist movement can serve as a valuable teaching tool, helping students understand these complex and pivotal moments in American history. By watching Harriet, students can gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and triumphs of African Americans during the 19th century and develop a broader understanding of the ongoing quest for equality and justice in the United States.
Themes and Content
While Harriet offers many educational benefits, it also deals with mature themes and contains some content that may not be suitable for all ages. The film depicts scenes of slavery, violence, and oppression, which can be disturbing and potentially traumatic for younger or more sensitive viewers. Additionally, the movie touches on issues like racism, segregation, and the dehumanizing effects of slavery, which are essential for understanding American history but require a level of maturity and contextual understanding to process.
Evaluating Appropriate Age Groups
Determining whether Harriet is appropriate for school depends largely on the age and maturity level of the students. The film’s PG-13 rating suggests that it is intended for viewers 13 years and older, but this can vary depending on individual students’ sensitivities and educational goals. For high school students, particularly those studying American history, civics, or social justice, Harriet can be a powerful and enlightening educational resource. However, for younger students, the film’s mature themes and content may require careful consideration and preparatory discussion.
Guidance for Educators
For educators considering showing Harriet in their classrooms, it is crucial to prepare students beforehand and facilitate a post-viewing discussion. This can involve providing historical context, discussing the themes and issues presented in the film, and helping students process their reactions and questions. Educators should also be mindful of their students’ diverse backgrounds and sensitivities, ensuring that the viewing experience is respectful and inclusive for all.
Pre-Viewing Preparation
Before showing Harriet, educators can prepare students by:
– Providing an overview of Harriet Tubman’s life and historical significance
– Discussing the context of slavery and the Underground Railroad in American history
– Introducing key themes such as freedom, equality, and resilience
– Encouraging students to consider how historical events influence contemporary society
Post-Viewing Discussion
After watching the film, educators should lead a thoughtful and guided discussion to help students reflect on what they have learned and how it affects their understanding of history and society. This can involve:
– Asking open-ended questions about the film’s portrayal of historical events and figures
– Exploring the relevance of Harriet Tubman’s story to ongoing struggles for justice and equality
– Encouraging students to share their thoughts and feelings about the movie and its themes
Conclusion
Harriet is a powerful and educational film that can be a valuable resource for schools, particularly for high school students studying American history and social justice. However, its suitability depends on the age and maturity of the students, as well as the educational goals and preparation of the educators. By understanding the film’s content, historical context, and potential impact on students, educators and parents can make informed decisions about its appropriateness for their school community. With careful planning and facilitation, Harriet can inspire meaningful learning, spark important discussions, and foster a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of Harriet Tubman and the ongoing quest for freedom and equality.
What is the movie Harriet about, and how does it relate to school curricula?
The movie Harriet is a biographical drama that tells the story of Harriet Tubman, a prominent abolitionist and freedom fighter who escaped from slavery in the 19th century. The film follows her journey as she becomes a conductor on the Underground Railroad, helping hundreds of enslaved people escape to freedom. This movie is highly relevant to school curricula, particularly in social studies, history, and language arts classes, as it provides a powerful and informative portrayal of a pivotal moment in American history.
The film’s themes of courage, perseverance, and the fight for equality and justice make it an excellent teaching tool for promoting critical thinking, empathy, and cultural awareness among students. Educators can use the movie to explore topics such as the Civil War, the Underground Railroad, and the experiences of African Americans during the 19th century. Additionally, the film’s historical accuracy and attention to detail make it an excellent resource for teaching students about the importance of historical context and the impact of individual actions on social change.
Is the movie Harriet suitable for all ages, or are there specific age recommendations?
The movie Harriet is rated PG-13, indicating that it may not be suitable for all ages, particularly younger children. The film contains some intense and disturbing scenes, including depictions of violence, slavery, and racism, which may be upsetting or triggering for sensitive or younger viewers. However, for older students, such as those in middle school or high school, the movie can be a valuable teaching tool, providing a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of American history and the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.
Educators and parents should exercise discretion when deciding whether to show the movie to younger students, taking into account the individual child’s sensitivity and maturity level. For older students, the movie can be used as a catalyst for discussions about social justice, activism, and the importance of empathy and understanding. It is essential to provide context and guidance when showing the film, ensuring that students understand the historical context and the significance of Harriet Tubman’s story. By doing so, educators can help students develop a deeper appreciation for American history and the ongoing struggle for human rights and dignity.
How does the movie Harriet portray the experiences of enslaved people, and what are the implications for teaching about slavery?
The movie Harriet provides a powerful and unsettling portrayal of the experiences of enslaved people in the 19th century, depicting the brutal realities of slavery, including physical abuse, forced labor, and family separation. The film’s attention to historical detail and its commitment to accuracy make it an excellent resource for teaching students about the horrors of slavery and the ways in which enslaved people resisted and fought back against their oppressors. By portraying the complexities and nuances of slavery, the movie helps to humanize the experiences of enslaved people, rather than reducing them to simplistic or stereotypical representations.
The implications of the movie’s portrayal of slavery are significant for teaching about this topic, as it provides a nuanced and multifaceted exploration of the institution and its impact on individuals and communities. Educators can use the film to help students understand the complexities of slavery, including the ways in which it was embedded in American society and the ways in which enslaved people resisted and fought back against their oppressors. By exploring the movie’s portrayal of slavery, educators can help students develop a deeper understanding of American history and the ongoing legacy of slavery, as well as the importance of empathy, compassion, and social justice.
What are some potential discussion topics and teaching ideas for using Harriet in the classroom?
The movie Harriet provides a wealth of opportunities for discussion and teaching, including topics such as the Underground Railroad, the Civil War, and the experiences of African Americans during the 19th century. Educators can use the film to explore themes such as courage, perseverance, and the fight for equality and justice, as well as the importance of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility. Additionally, the movie can be used to teach students about the importance of historical context, the impact of individual actions on social change, and the ongoing legacy of slavery and racism in American society.
Some potential teaching ideas for using Harriet in the classroom include asking students to create a timeline of Harriet Tubman’s life, researching and writing about the history of the Underground Railroad, or creating a multimedia presentation about the experiences of enslaved people during the 19th century. Educators can also use the film to promote critical thinking and empathy, asking students to consider the perspectives and experiences of different characters in the movie, or to reflect on the ways in which the movie’s themes and messages relate to contemporary social issues. By using the movie as a teaching tool, educators can help students develop a deeper understanding of American history and the importance of social justice and activism.
How can educators and parents address potential controversy or sensitivity surrounding the movie Harriet?
The movie Harriet deals with sensitive and potentially controversial topics, including slavery, racism, and violence, which may be upsetting or triggering for some viewers. To address these concerns, educators and parents should provide context and guidance when showing the film, ensuring that students understand the historical context and the significance of Harriet Tubman’s story. It is also essential to create a safe and supportive learning environment, where students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing their thoughts and feelings about the movie.
To address potential controversy or sensitivity, educators and parents can also consider providing additional resources and support, such as discussing the movie’s themes and messages in advance, providing trigger warnings or content advisories, or offering alternative assignments or activities for students who may be sensitive or upset by the film’s content. By being proactive and sensitive to the needs and concerns of their students, educators and parents can help to create a positive and supportive learning environment, where students can engage with the movie’s themes and messages in a thoughtful and reflective way.
What are some potential resources and supplements for teaching about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad?
There are many resources and supplements available for teaching about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad, including books, articles, and online materials. Educators can use these resources to provide additional context and information about the movie’s themes and historical events, as well as to promote deeper learning and understanding among students. Some potential resources include the National Park Service’s website on the Underground Railroad, the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, and the Library of Congress’s collection of primary sources related to Harriet Tubman and the abolitionist movement.
Additionally, educators can use multimedia resources, such as videos, podcasts, and interactive websites, to engage students and promote learning about Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad. Some potential supplements include the PBS documentary series “The Underground Railroad,” the NPR podcast “Code Switch,” and the online interactive exhibit “The Underground Railroad: Escape from Slavery.” By using these resources and supplements, educators can create a comprehensive and engaging learning experience that helps students develop a deeper understanding of American history and the ongoing legacy of slavery and racism.
How can educators and parents evaluate the effectiveness of using Harriet in the classroom or at home?
To evaluate the effectiveness of using Harriet in the classroom or at home, educators and parents can consider a variety of factors, including student engagement, understanding, and empathy. They can assess whether students are able to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the movie’s themes and historical events, as well as whether they are able to make connections between the movie’s messages and contemporary social issues. Additionally, educators and parents can evaluate the effectiveness of the movie in promoting critical thinking, empathy, and social responsibility among students.
Some potential assessment tools and strategies include quizzes, discussions, and reflective writing assignments, as well as more creative projects, such as multimedia presentations, posters, or art projects. Educators and parents can also solicit feedback from students, asking them to reflect on what they learned from the movie and how it has impacted their thinking and perspectives. By using a variety of assessment tools and strategies, educators and parents can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the movie’s effectiveness in promoting learning and engagement among students, and make adjustments to their teaching approaches as needed.