Is 'Gone with the Wind' 1939 Truly Racist?

The question of whether the 1939 film 'Gone with the Wind' is racist has sparked intense debate. Some viewers argue that the movie does not promote racism, while others contend it is deeply rooted in prejudiced attitudes. This article explores the arguments on both sides and provides a comprehensive analysis of the film's racial undertones.

The Perspective of Non-Racism

Many film enthusiasts like Jane Smith argue that 'Gone with the Wind' is not racist. They believe characters like Mammy, Pork, and Uncle Peter are portrayed in a positive light, showcasing their loyalty, intelligence, and kindness. Jane writes: I didn’t find it racist at all. It shows how Mammy and Pork and Uncle Peter were loyal and nice and caring.

The Argument for Racism

However, many critics, such as Dr. Robert Lee, contend that 'Gone with the Wind' is indeed a profoundly racist film. Dr. Lee emphasizes that removing racsim from the narrative would fundamentally alter the story. He explains: In fact, taking racism out of 'Gone with the Wind' would make it a fundamentally different story.

Dr. Lee further challenges the idea of "not being racist for its time," stating that the definition of racism is unchanging. He asserts: There’s no such thing as “not racist for its time”. It’s a racist film from a time when our entire society was more racist than it is today. We can understand it and view it through that context but racism is racism.

A Critical Analysis of 'Gone with the Wind'

The film's opening text emphasizes the idealization of the antebellum South, which Dr. Lee critiques: A lot of people also talk about Mammy as being the “take charge” character in the movie. How could a movie be racist when it’s giving a black character so much agency? Except Mammy also seems perfectly content to be owned as a piece of property. At no point does she question her station.

Dr. Lee further highlights how the film supports the Lost Cause narrative, which romanticizes the antebellum South and insults contemporary black people. He provides an example from the opening text: “There was a land of Cavaliers and Cotton Fields called the Old South... Here in this pretty world Gallantry took its last bow.. Here was the last ever to be seen of Knights and their Ladies Fair of Master and Slave... Look for it only in books for it is no more than a dream remembered. A Civilization gone with the wind...”

The Changing Reception of 'Gone with the Wind'

As society evolves, the perception of 'Gone with the Wind' is also changing. Dr. Lee notes that the rebel flag, another controversial aspect of the film, is gradually losing favor in mainstream America: The past 4 years have shown mainstream America that the rebel flag is indelibly associated with modern white supremacy so it’s being abandoned by those who once saw it as a harmless symbol of Southern identity.

Regarding the film itself, Dr. Lee critiques its artistic and historical value: But the movie is long, the effects are dated, the acting is in the old studio style which seems a bit hackneyed these days. It is still widely viewed but once my generation is gone its audience will dwindle. It will become a historical reference rather than a film one sees for entertainment.

He also addresses the impact of the film's depiction of black characters: The film’s depiction of black characters will certainly contribute to its fading. It’s difficult to watch the film without rolling your eyes at the caricatures although many of the white Southern characters are just as cartoonish if not so debased as the black characters.

Conclusion

The debate over 'Gone with the Wind' is far from resolved. While some may see the film as a positive portrayal of historical figures, critics like Dr. Lee argue that its inherent racism must be acknowledged. As societal values continue to evolve, the film's relevance and reception will likely change, reflecting changing norms and attitudes.

To wrap up this analysis, it is important to view 'Gone with the Wind' with a critical eye, understanding its historical and cultural context. While the film may hold historical significance, its enduring legacy remains a subject of ongoing debate.