#ModernBaartmans: Black Women's Reimagining of Saartjie Baartman

In: Journal of black studies, Band 52, Heft 7, S. 667-687

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to understand Black women's recollection and representation of Saartjie Baartman in comparison to their own body image, while also aligning their interpretation of Baartman's legacy through contemporary reflections of themselves and others. Interviews with 30 Black women in South Africa ( n = 15) and the United States ( n = 15) reveal that accurate knowledge and perceptions of Baartman's experience varies; Baartman's body is remembered as trope and ideal object to compare; however, Black women find resilience and positivity in Baartman's story. These findings although some consistent with previous literature, some are inconsistent. Considering the Black women in this study did not thematically discuss experiencing dissatisfaction, self-objectification, or self-surveillance. It is important to recognize Black women's perceptions of their bodies as resilient and positive rather than dissatisfied. This research provides important information for the furtherance of positive body image and Black women relative to the curvaceous ideal.