“Roots”- A Movie Review Essay Example
“Roots”- A Movie Review Essay Example

“Roots”- A Movie Review Essay Example

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  • Pages: 2 (348 words)
  • Published: September 3, 2017
  • Type: Essay
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The TV series 'Roots' recounts the story of Kunta Kinte, an African man who was enslaved and transported to America where he was forced to live as a slave until his death. Throughout the show, viewers witness the brutal journey Kunta endured in order to reach America, including the traumatic middle passage where he and fellow slaves were shackled together in cramped and unsanitary conditions. They were frequently afflicted with illnesses and disease, and many lost their lives before even reaching shore. During the voyage, Kunta and another tribal leader devised a plan to take control of the ship during their daily dance routine, but unfortunately, most of their fellow tribesmen were killed in the ensuing rebellion.

One aspect of the show that remains challenging is Mr. Slater's discussion with the captain regarding slavery. S

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ome of his statements were foolish and untrue, such as the baseless claim of cannibalism or the highly ignorant allegation of different strains of human. Finally, when Kunta arrived in Annapolis, Maryland on September 29th, 1767, he and his fellow slaves were thrown into steel cells overnight before being put up for auction the next day.During Kunta's auction, he was scrutinized for any cuts, bruises, or infections and considered to be the "pick of the herd". He was eventually sold to an owner of a tobacco plantation in Virginia and assigned to another slave named Fiddler, who taught Kunta English. However, Kunta became angry upon learning that his new name was Toby. Fiddler had more privileges than other slaves, owning a bed and being able to move around until given a task. The white owners had debates about the education of black

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people, with one arguing that if they could be taught to read, they would be seen as equal. The doctor dismissed this argument, claiming that education would harm them. Kunta attempted to escape but was caught and punished severely. He eventually accepted the name Toby after being beaten nearly to death.This movie aims to provide insight into the brutal punishments inflicted during the horrific era of the slave trade.

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