Sara Ceraso, Post 2

The poem "The Venus Hottentot" really caught my attention. I don't always comprehend poetry the first time around, but once I do it is a very interesting read, especially with being an Art History major and constantly having to read these factual articles, texts and blogs.

To first talk about the fact that is was in poem form is beautiful in it's self. Elizabeth Alexander could have written a short story or an article to express her feelings towards this issue, but instead made it in the poem format. With anything I feel that poetry is a way to express one's true feelings through words and emotions that at first glance might not seem fit.

When I Googled (answer for everything) information on the background of this poem, even before we watched the documentary, especially concerning the part where Sarah Baartman's body had been casted and studied, I was completely shocked. It was like she had absolutely no right to a proper funeral. She was an object that once died off could be used for scientific research.

I have obviously heard of racism and slavery. I have heard of ignorance and close mindedness of the people of the olden days, and still a little bit right now unfortunately, but I have never heard of this case of Sarah Baartman. Now obviously what they did was horrible. She was basically being sold for profit. And for what reason, because she looked different? The tables would sure turn around if a white woman of that time was put on display in the African region where Baartman was from. Just to play devils advocate.. what if the only reason these scientists kept her body was strictly for scientific purposes. I mean there are obvious differences between Baartman's forms and the forms of a white woman, or an Asian woman, or one of any other decent. Studying her body could open up doors in the scientific world. Would it still be wrong then? I would say yes just because of my morals. Now of course these people did these things for the absolutely wrong reasons, but today we have bodies studied and experimented on for cures for diseases (of course with valid permission). It is just something to throw out there. I am glad that her body has been returned to her homeland. I think in the end that was the best and most respectful thing to do, especially due to how she was treated within her short lived life.

I am glad I have grown up in a world with out racism that goes to that extent. It would be a horrible thing to witness. I am enjoying this class so far and eager to learn and discover other historical instances where ethnicity and race have come into play like this.