Ep 4. Margaret Mitchell: American Rebel

Margaret Mitchell: American Rebel is an intriguing episode of the American Masters series. In this episode, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the life of an iconic American author, Margaret Mitchell, and the creation of her masterpiece, Gone with the Wind.

This episode is an excellent tribute to the life and works of Margaret Mitchell, who is an inspiring figure for dreamers, writers, and artists alike. Through interviews with several experts and people who knew her personally, viewers get to know the woman behind the book, who was bold, formidable, and fiercely independent.

The episode covers a broad range of topics, from Margaret's early years, her family history, and her love for books and writing, to the creation of the legendary character, Scarlett O'Hara. It delves into the cultural, social, and political factors that influenced Margaret's writing and how her work reflected the changing times in America.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this episode is the way it unravels Mitchell's personality, revealing her as a complex and contradictory person. She was a progressive woman who spoke out against racism at a time when it was socially unacceptable, yet she still held onto some of the traditional beliefs of her time. Her upbringing in the South formed her perspective on the world, which was apparent in her works, but at the same time, she managed to transcend some of these biases and write a book that became a touchstone for women worldwide.

The episode also highlights the challenges Mitchell faced while writing the book, including personal tragedies, physical injuries, and years of arduous work. These factors, along with her innate talent for storytelling, helped her create a masterpiece that has stood the test of time, despite numerous controversies and debates it has sparked.

But what makes this episode truly remarkable is its incorporation of other voices, particularly those of African Americans. They shed light on the one-sided portrayal of slavery and the Civil War in Gone with the Wind. Through their stories, viewers get to see how Mitchell's work was a product of its time, marked by the limitations of her own experiences and context.

The episode also explores the cultural impact of the book, from its initial reception to its lasting influence on future writers, filmmakers and popular culture. It features interviews with several writers, including Alice Walker, who wrote The Color Purple, which was a direct response to Gone with the Wind.

The documentary also highlights the controversies surrounding the book and its adaptation to the big screen, including the controversies regarding the film's casting decisions and their possible impact on the way the story was perceived.

Overall, Margaret Mitchell: American Rebel is an insightful, thought-provoking, and inspiring exploration of one of America's most beloved authors and a masterpiece of American literature. It's an episode that provides a comprehensive understanding of Mitchell's life, work, and legacy, and does so with utmost respect and reverence. It encourages viewers to reflect on their own place in history, the power of storytelling and the ongoing struggle for equality.