37 pages • 1 hour read
Melton Alonza McLaurinCelia, A Slave
Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1991A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
Celia, A Slave by Melton A. McLaurin examines the 1855 trial and execution of Celia, an enslaved woman in Missouri, who kills her master, Robert Newsom, after years of sexual exploitation. The book explores the intersection of gender and racial oppression, the moral complexities of slavery, and the legal system's role in upholding white supremacy, offering a detailed case study of the period's moral and political anxieties. The book discusses sexual violence and exploitation.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Melton Alonza McLaurin's Celia, A Slave is praised for its meticulous research and compelling narrative that brings Celia's tragic story to light. Readers appreciate the historical context and the exploration of gender and race issues. However, some criticize its speculative elements and limited primary sources. Overall, it is impactful and thought-provoking.
Who Should Read Celia, A Slave?
Readers who appreciate deeply researched historical narratives with a focus on social justice will find Celia, A Slave by Melton Alonza McLaurin compelling. Similar to Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl by Harriet Jacobs and Roots by Alex Haley, it combines personal stories with broader historical contexts, ideal for enthusiasts of African American history and legal studies.