I think what makes us like Scarlett despite her spoiled, selfish nature is that nothing is handed to her. The very first thing we read about her is that the man she loves is marrying someone else and disappointing her. From there it's a downhill climb: unhappy marriage #1, unwanted baby, war, losing Terra, seeing Atlanta burn, delivering Beau without assistance, never getting with Ashley, failing to seduce Rhett for his money, killing a man who threatens her, unhappy marriage #2...etc. There's a balance: the more bad things happen to her, the more "evil" her character gets to be and the more we'll appreciate her redemption arc.
Good review. I'm so torn between agreeing with your final statements about choice. Of course because racism is something I have to sit in I don't want to read about it from the point of view of someone like the author. I also think it's great that you grew from it. I think that experience is rare. And we have such a huge problem with erasing the history of America's racist roots. Look up statistics about how many people think slavery wasn't that bad or the civil war wasn't about racism. We've had hundreds of years of erasing the truth through the daughters of the confederacy, the lost cause, "its just my heritage " and the like. I don't believe in banning books. I also don't want to read this one and I'm glad I got a sparks notes version from you!
Katrina, thank you for the thoughtful comment. I completely understand avoiding books one would find upsetting and frustrating. You're right about the erasure of racist roots (among other things). These texts help us understand certain mindsets and attitudes that were held. GWTW says something about the United States in the 1930s which is fascinating. Again you're right, there's more than one book out about racism and the Civil War. Actually, I'd like to learn more about the Civil War to figure the aspects Mitchell got both right and wrong. That desire for learning is always a nice feeling. Glad I could provide the sparks notes version for you! Miss your videos!
Excellent discussion. I would add that Mitchell's racism is cultural racism or learned behavior. That is much different than hate fueled racism. Two different things. Mitchell was a product of her time. This is not to excuse her, but it's important to understand that. I like the book, potboiler though it is, and there is some very good writing in it.
I really appreciate the way you articulated hated fueled racism versus cultural racism. You've given me something to think about. Thank you kindly for that as well.
Yes. I agree. I believe our benefit is that we get to look at this novel with a long range perspective.. from 2023. And we get to see how much culture affects paradigms.
Love that you recommend books for Scarlett. Also love your top! I wish we could go back in time to see how this book was taken when it was written. I also want to see the movie to compare and see how/if they portrayed things differently. 😊💙
Awe, thanks! GWTW was instantly popular which was very unusual because the book was expensive (at the time) and it was published during the Great Depression. The racism was noticed back then. Mitchell had nothing to do with the movie and ultimately fame wasn’t for her. The movie is on my list to-watch as well.
About the character formation of Scarlett… I see her as real. How many people do you know that truly go through a character formation journey, one where the have accelerated change? Not that many in my world. I actively began changing my character around 30 years old. I’m 36 now. Character change is an intriguing process. Possible yes. And at the same time… we see, our own heart and the hearts of others express, or hidden. Who are people really? That’s one reason it is fun to see Scarlett
Random, but I love your shirt! It's so bright and floral. I loved hearing the background of Margaret Mitchell, because I know little of her life. This was an exceptional discussion of this book, from Scarlett's "princess" background to Scarlett's lack of great growth. It's been years since I've read Gone With the Wind, but you make me want to pick it up again despite its imperfections.
Anne, thank you! I found Mitchell was, in part, a product and representation of her time. And she was able to write a quarter of very compelling characters. Scarlett was truly original! I wouldn’t be surprised if I revisited it sometime in the future. Also, please let me know if you pick it up.
I live in the south also and have never been the least interested in the Civil War but last year I read a kind of fun nonfiction book called Liar, Temptresses, Soldier, Spy about 4 women spies , 2 for the north and 2 for the south which gave me a beginners view of the war and learned about these strong women who assisted in their own way.
Sandra, when I lived in California, I used to attend Civil War reenactments, but other than that I've interacted very little with United States in 1861-1865. Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy sounds amazing! I must check that out soon!
Stumbled upon your video, as I am currently rereading this book and have really mixed feelings about it. Loved your review so much as well as the recommendations to Scarlett
Fiddle-dee-dee. I think Scarlett won’t read because she will think about it tomorrow. After all, tomorrow is another day. Love how much passion an 85 year old book inspired in you. The book has so many problems along side terrific characters.
I imagine Scarlett saying, "God's nightgown!" And refusing to read anything I set in front of her because she's not a reader. Ha! I tried. The book really was one of those which had really wonderful aspects and very uncomfortable language and ideas. A unique experience to say the least.
Great video! One thing that you didn’t mention though, while the author does romanticize the South, she also uses Scarlett’s and Rhett’s characters to ridicule it and its customs.
Your discussion of the O'Hara's way of life being built on slave labor, the racism in the book, and the overly romantic depiction of life in the South was very well thought out and explained. I too rooted for Scarlett to change . . . . I can't quite get there with being thankful for the book's existence, but I loved your discussion and review.
Hi Shelly, this was a great review. It has been a lot of fun reading this together and exchanging ideas. Thank you for mentioning me. I continue to have a complicated relationship with this novel even after finishing it. Your book recommendations for Scarlett were brilliant!
Jorge, I'd really love to hear your thoughts on Part five, no rush though. Part five, for me, was the strongest in terms of character development, but some of the interactions between Scarlett and Rhett were confusing.
Can’t agree more with Elisabeth - Scarlett O’Hara could have used spending more time with a book than looking at her appearance. Brilliant idea and some great suggestions for Scarlett!
Great review. All I knew about this was how my dad, who is always like, gotta situate things in historical context type of reader, and my mom both said it was too problematic and gross to bother with. And I’m way more hard edge than them, so I bet it wouldn’t be for me. I didn’t know that about Twain. I haven’t tried to read him, though I have some of those books. Pretty great idea recommending books to the character.
Thank you! I must clarify about Mark Twain. I Iike Twain’s writing and think his work did more good than harm, certainly. Huck Finn has been read as in support for slavery, but I believe, that’s a misinterpretation of the book. Scarlett seems to have left some impression on me because even today I thought, “Hm. Scarlett should read this.”
I love your idea to recommend novels to Scarlett. I'm guessing I know your opinion on the argument, can reading make you a better person. I really need to reread GWTW, I thought she was trying to accurately reflect the views of people at the time - having seen yours and a few other thoughtful reviews on it, I think I must have been mistaken. I liked Scarlett, I wouldn't want to be her friend, but she was and Rhett was the villains I wanted to win... And I did like that they weren't happy at the end. -Scott
Scott, I believe many people take GWTW as a reflection of southerners' views during the Civil War. Though I can understand that argument, the racist ideas are reiterated over and over. Also, there's nothing to balance the racism. Nowhere in the novel does it say, "these views were incorrect." Even Ashley, the most balanced person in the book, makes a comment near the very end that slaves were happy being enslaved. There's no regret for owning people or reconsidering of people as property. Very odd. Yes! I agree! I wanted Scarlett and Rhett to win. And I'm glad that Mitchell didn't the story up in a nice little bow. Best, Shelly
I really appreciate you addressing this book's racism. I think it's important when discussing what we read to talk about when books and authors are problematic. I need to call out Christie a whole lot more, *but* I'm planning to make that its own video.
Kevvie, thank you. One question that confounded me was, if GWTW is so racist, why was it so popular? My video, though I didn't know at the time, was partly setting out to explain Mitchell's approach to racism and why it continues to be a problem throughout the novel. I'd be very interested in a similar video about Christie from YOU!
I really enjoyed this review, especially your thoughts on the themes conveyed and the character arc. I have not read this and I'm not sure if this is something I will be interested in reading in the future, but I enjoyed your discussion of it.
Oh, thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed my discussion of GWTW. The book really stumped me for a while. Even now that it's been 3 weeks, my opinions are more condensed and direct.
Very interesting review. GWTW is on my shortlist (ironic pun intended) for March of the Mammoths. I’m very used to reading appalling books but suspect this one will be a challenge even for me. Loved Wonder btw.
HA! You're so punny! I think you'll get the best idea of the "problematic" nature of GWTW by reading the first chapter or so. I don't tend to read appalling books, so I wonder if I'm extra sensitive to the book because of that. I'll be curious as to what you pick up.
Hey Shelly, really loved this review. For me who is not that well informed about American history , the background of the book you provided will set the context if I ever decide to read. 😊 Scarlett sounds very real but nasty 😁. Loved that you called out the blatant racism in this book. I appreciate you talking about it. That idea of recommending books to Scarlet , 👍. I loved the premise of Red Tent. Might pick that one up.
Thank you! I didn't mention that Scarlett was written to be quite nasty. She's a very selfish character, but there's something about her that made me root for her throughout. I hope I was able to better explain why this book is considered "problematic" which, only in reflection, was something I set out to do. The Red Tent fantastic! I'd highly recommend the read!
Love a good love story, and this one is brimming over with romance. Fabulous video, Shelly, a whole lotta fun! Very creative! Thx!~ Janet Faye Elizabeth
Shelly, completely off-topic here, but remember when we were trying to figure out how to pronounce Michelle Nijhuis? Her insta profile is literally "rhymeswithmyhouse" 😂
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
I think what makes us like Scarlett despite her spoiled, selfish nature is that nothing is handed to her. The very first thing we read about her is that the man she loves is marrying someone else and disappointing her. From there it's a downhill climb: unhappy marriage #1, unwanted baby, war, losing Terra, seeing Atlanta burn, delivering Beau without assistance, never getting with Ashley, failing to seduce Rhett for his money, killing a man who threatens her, unhappy marriage #2...etc.
There's a balance: the more bad things happen to her, the more "evil" her character gets to be and the more we'll appreciate her redemption arc.
Good review. I'm so torn between agreeing with your final statements about choice. Of course because racism is something I have to sit in I don't want to read about it from the point of view of someone like the author. I also think it's great that you grew from it. I think that experience is rare. And we have such a huge problem with erasing the history of America's racist roots. Look up statistics about how many people think slavery wasn't that bad or the civil war wasn't about racism. We've had hundreds of years of erasing the truth through the daughters of the confederacy, the lost cause, "its just my heritage " and the like. I don't believe in banning books. I also don't want to read this one and I'm glad I got a sparks notes version from you!
Katrina, thank you for the thoughtful comment. I completely understand avoiding books one would find upsetting and frustrating. You're right about the erasure of racist roots (among other things). These texts help us understand certain mindsets and attitudes that were held. GWTW says something about the United States in the 1930s which is fascinating. Again you're right, there's more than one book out about racism and the Civil War. Actually, I'd like to learn more about the Civil War to figure the aspects Mitchell got both right and wrong. That desire for learning is always a nice feeling. Glad I could provide the sparks notes version for you! Miss your videos!
I loved to hear your thoughts on GWTW. Your idea of recommending books to Scarlett is genius!
Thanks, Elisabeth!
Excellent discussion. I would add that Mitchell's racism is cultural racism or learned behavior. That is much different than hate fueled racism. Two different things. Mitchell was a product of her time. This is not to excuse her, but it's important to understand that. I like the book, potboiler though it is, and there is some very good writing in it.
I really appreciate the way you articulated hated fueled racism versus cultural racism. You've given me something to think about. Thank you kindly for that as well.
Yes. I agree. I believe our benefit is that we get to look at this novel with a long range perspective.. from 2023. And we get to see how much culture affects paradigms.
Love that you recommend books for Scarlett. Also love your top! I wish we could go back in time to see how this book was taken when it was written. I also want to see the movie to compare and see how/if they portrayed things differently. 😊💙
Awe, thanks! GWTW was instantly popular which was very unusual because the book was expensive (at the time) and it was published during the Great Depression. The racism was noticed back then. Mitchell had nothing to do with the movie and ultimately fame wasn’t for her.
The movie is on my list to-watch as well.
About the character formation of Scarlett… I see her as real. How many people do you know that truly go through a character formation journey, one where the have accelerated change? Not that many in my world. I actively began changing my character around 30 years old. I’m 36 now. Character change is an intriguing process. Possible yes. And at the same time… we see, our own heart and the hearts of others express, or hidden. Who are people really? That’s one reason it is fun to see Scarlett
What an interesting philosophical take on Scarlett. She's a fascinating character to say the least. Thanks for sharing.
Random, but I love your shirt! It's so bright and floral. I loved hearing the background of Margaret Mitchell, because I know little of her life. This was an exceptional discussion of this book, from Scarlett's "princess" background to Scarlett's lack of great growth. It's been years since I've read Gone With the Wind, but you make me want to pick it up again despite its imperfections.
Anne, thank you! I found Mitchell was, in part, a product and representation of her time. And she was able to write a quarter of very compelling characters. Scarlett was truly original! I wouldn’t be surprised if I revisited it sometime in the future. Also, please let me know if you pick it up.
I live in the south also and have never been the least interested in the Civil War but last year I read a kind of fun nonfiction book called Liar, Temptresses, Soldier, Spy about 4 women spies , 2 for the north and 2 for the south which gave me a beginners view of the war and learned about these strong women who assisted in their own way.
Sandra, when I lived in California, I used to attend Civil War reenactments, but other than that I've interacted very little with United States in 1861-1865. Liar, Temptress, Soldier, Spy sounds amazing! I must check that out soon!
@@Shellyish Ironynever attended a reenactment haha
Stumbled upon your video, as I am currently rereading this book and have really mixed feelings about it. Loved your review so much as well as the recommendations to Scarlett
Glad it was enjoyable! Thank you!!
Fiddle-dee-dee. I think Scarlett won’t read because she will think about it tomorrow. After all, tomorrow is another day. Love how much passion an 85 year old book inspired in you. The book has so many problems along side terrific characters.
I imagine Scarlett saying, "God's nightgown!" And refusing to read anything I set in front of her because she's not a reader. Ha! I tried.
The book really was one of those which had really wonderful aspects and very uncomfortable language and ideas. A unique experience to say the least.
Great video! One thing that you didn’t mention though, while the author does romanticize the South, she also uses Scarlett’s and Rhett’s characters to ridicule it and its customs.
Good point!
Your discussion of the O'Hara's way of life being built on slave labor, the racism in the book, and the overly romantic depiction of life in the South was very well thought out and explained.
I too rooted for Scarlett to change . . . .
I can't quite get there with being thankful for the book's existence, but I loved your discussion and review.
Thanks, Brian. I appreciate the kind words. Perhaps a better way of framing it is - I’m thankful for the experience the book gave me.
Fascinating discussion from Professor Shelly Swearingen of the University of RUclips,,,,
Haha. Agree , Jim 👍
HAHAHA! Hardly, but thank you!
Hi Shelly, this was a great review. It has been a lot of fun reading this together and exchanging ideas. Thank you for mentioning me. I continue to have a complicated relationship with this novel even after finishing it. Your book recommendations for Scarlett were brilliant!
Jorge, I'd really love to hear your thoughts on Part five, no rush though. Part five, for me, was the strongest in terms of character development, but some of the interactions between Scarlett and Rhett were confusing.
Can’t agree more with Elisabeth - Scarlett O’Hara could have used spending more time with a book than looking at her appearance. Brilliant idea and some great suggestions for Scarlett!
Thanks, Kelly! I appreciate all of our conversations and your support! 😊
@@Shellyish Right back at you! 💕
Great review. All I knew about this was how my dad, who is always like, gotta situate things in historical context type of reader, and my mom both said it was too problematic and gross to bother with. And I’m way more hard edge than them, so I bet it wouldn’t be for me. I didn’t know that about Twain. I haven’t tried to read him, though I have some of those books.
Pretty great idea recommending books to the character.
Thank you! I must clarify about Mark Twain. I Iike Twain’s writing and think his work did more good than harm, certainly. Huck Finn has been read as in support for slavery, but I believe, that’s a misinterpretation of the book.
Scarlett seems to have left some impression on me because even today I thought, “Hm. Scarlett should read this.”
I love your idea to recommend novels to Scarlett. I'm guessing I know your opinion on the argument, can reading make you a better person.
I really need to reread GWTW, I thought she was trying to accurately reflect the views of people at the time - having seen yours and a few other thoughtful reviews on it, I think I must have been mistaken.
I liked Scarlett, I wouldn't want to be her friend, but she was and Rhett was the villains I wanted to win... And I did like that they weren't happy at the end.
-Scott
Scott, I believe many people take GWTW as a reflection of southerners' views during the Civil War. Though I can understand that argument, the racist ideas are reiterated over and over. Also, there's nothing to balance the racism. Nowhere in the novel does it say, "these views were incorrect." Even Ashley, the most balanced person in the book, makes a comment near the very end that slaves were happy being enslaved. There's no regret for owning people or reconsidering of people as property. Very odd.
Yes! I agree! I wanted Scarlett and Rhett to win. And I'm glad that Mitchell didn't the story up in a nice little bow.
Best, Shelly
I really appreciate you addressing this book's racism. I think it's important when discussing what we read to talk about when books and authors are problematic. I need to call out Christie a whole lot more, *but* I'm planning to make that its own video.
Kevvie, thank you. One question that confounded me was, if GWTW is so racist, why was it so popular? My video, though I didn't know at the time, was partly setting out to explain Mitchell's approach to racism and why it continues to be a problem throughout the novel. I'd be very interested in a similar video about Christie from YOU!
@@Shellyish Oh yes, the whole time I've been reading her work I've been compiling examples of her racism. That review will be scathing 🔥
Your 👚 🥰. I want your earrings? Where did you get them?!!
Awe! Thank you!!! I bought my earrings from a place called SALTANDLIME on Etsy.
I really enjoyed this review, especially your thoughts on the themes conveyed and the character arc. I have not read this and I'm not sure if this is something I will be interested in reading in the future, but I enjoyed your discussion of it.
Oh, thank you. I'm glad you enjoyed my discussion of GWTW. The book really stumped me for a while. Even now that it's been 3 weeks, my opinions are more condensed and direct.
If you haven't read it I imagine that if you do, "it will be in the future".
Loved your review! It's very comprehensive and well thought out.
Fyi, Clayton County, Georgia is a real place. 😊
Very interesting review. GWTW is on my shortlist (ironic pun intended) for March of the Mammoths. I’m very used to reading appalling books but suspect this one will be a challenge even for me.
Loved Wonder btw.
HA! You're so punny! I think you'll get the best idea of the "problematic" nature of GWTW by reading the first chapter or so. I don't tend to read appalling books, so I wonder if I'm extra sensitive to the book because of that. I'll be curious as to what you pick up.
@@Shellyish I don’t think you’re extra sensitive, it sounds like this is a pretty appalling book, for all its strengths. Congrats on 1k!
@@CriminOllyBlog Thank you!
What a great nuanced and balanced review! Thanks Shelly for such a thoughtful review
Thank you, Deb! I really appreciate the kind words and encouragement.
Hey Shelly, really loved this review. For me who is not that well informed about American history , the background of the book you provided will set the context if I ever decide to read. 😊 Scarlett sounds very real but nasty 😁. Loved that you called out the blatant racism in this book. I appreciate you talking about it. That idea of recommending books to Scarlet , 👍. I loved the premise of Red Tent. Might pick that one up.
Thank you! I didn't mention that Scarlett was written to be quite nasty. She's a very selfish character, but there's something about her that made me root for her throughout. I hope I was able to better explain why this book is considered "problematic" which, only in reflection, was something
I set out to do. The Red Tent fantastic! I'd highly recommend the read!
Good discussion, Shelly. Someday I'll get to this book.
Thanks, AJ. It's one that'll take you a minute just because of the page count.
Very in depth discussion! You did a great job discussing a difficult book!
Thank you, Sandy! I really appreciate it!
Amazing review Shelly, great job .....and your top 😍😍
Thank you, Beki! My mom bought me this dress ages ago and I keep forgetting to wear it on camera. ❤️
@@Shellyish Aaaabsolutely lovely 🥰
Clayton County is NOT a fictional county. All cities in the book are indeed very much real.
Thanks! Much appreciated!
What do you think about how much wealth she gave to black universities? For the students to grow and develop through education. And she gave in secret
I think individuals are nuanced and complicated.
Love a good love story, and this one is brimming over with romance. Fabulous video, Shelly, a whole lotta fun! Very creative! Thx!~ Janet Faye Elizabeth
Thank you! I appreciate the kind words!
Shelly, completely off-topic here, but remember when we were trying to figure out how to pronounce Michelle Nijhuis? Her insta profile is literally "rhymeswithmyhouse" 😂
Robert, I could've saved myself the mispronunciation embarrassment by checking her instagram account... HA! I should've done my research.