Sexual Exploitation and Objectification of Black Women in David Wilson’s 12 Years a Slave (1853)and its Movie Adaptation: A Feminist Study
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Date
2023
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UNIVERSITY OF ABBES LAGHROUR-KHENCHELA
Abstract
Abstract
This research aims to shed light on black women specifically the disadvantaged exploited black women in David Wilson’s 12 Years a Slave (1853), as narrated by Solomon Northup, combined with scenes from the movie that was adapted by Steve McQueen (2013). Northup spoke of the ill treatment he received, and the life of men and women whom they worked side by side in the slave community. Yet, it is interesting to note that women had been subjected to and experienced horrific psychological trauma, male patriarchy, physical and sexual abuse for they were seen as lustful beings, however, they are only a victim of sexual objectification and exploitation of both white and black men. Therefore, it is important to note and acknowledge the heartless and unfair treatment which these brave women had to experience in order to survive, and to voice out their stories rather than being silenced or ignored by society and male-controlled environment, also to encourage, inspire women to stand up for themselves and fight for their rights, and to dismiss any negative images of these black women.