AMERICA'S BLACK SPARTACUS REMEMBERED: The Confessions of Nat Turner

On August 21, 1831, in Virginia, Nat Turner led a band of slaves in rebellion, murder and mayhem that lasted forty hours. He tells his story--from his childhood full of visions to his charismatic place within this rebellion. Andrews looks at the historical and literary evidence and discusses whether we see this rebellion from Turner's perspective or that of the slave owners. Bernard Addison portrays Turner as a literate and articulate black man with a sonorous, hypnotic voice that captures his enthusiasm to follow his vision from God. Michael Collins, as the Interviewer, acts as foil asking about Turner's inspiration and purpose. Judge Allen Gilmore, as the Judge, metes out the justice of the day, his voice echoing through the courtroom. The Afterthought encourages the listener to consider what has been heard and probes at the authenticity of the Confessions. M.B.K. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC/JAN 00]