Ethnic Notions Directed by Marlon Riggs and Birth of a Nation Directed by D.w. Griffith: a Comparative Study

Introduction

In the films "Ethnic Notions" and "The Birth of a Nation," racism is clearly present. Both films depict the perception of African Americans through the eyes of white Americans. "The Birth of a Nation" showcases the Ku Klux Klan's hatred towards African Americans, while "Ethnic Notions" takes the viewer through the history of some of the common stereotypes and terms used for African Americans. Terms such as "Mammy," "Coon," and "Tom" are explored. Characters like the "Coon" were designed by producers to serve primarily as a source of amusement for others, portrayed as complete buffoons with their hair standing on end, and depicted as harmless and foolish.

Analysis of "Ethnic Notions"

"Ethnic Notions," directed by Marlon Riggs, is a historical film that takes the viewer through the course of American history from the 1820s to the 1980s. The film's powerful impact is achieved through its use of songs, archival footage, and artifacts. It explores derogatory terms that have been used to depict African Americans. Even well into the twentieth century, terms like "Mammy," "Coon," and "Sambo" were commonly used in reference to Black Americans. These stereotypes served to dehumanize and belittle African Americans, reinforcing their perceived inferiority.

Analysis of "The Birth of a Nation"

In "The Birth of a Nation," directed by D.W. Griffith, African Americans are portrayed as villains, while whites are depicted as heroes. The film romanticizes the old South and the emergence of the Ku Klux Klan. African Americans are shown dancing and performing for their masters, which reinforces the notion of their subservience. The film portrays a distorted history where the passing of laws requiring whites to salute Black officers and the legalization of interracial marriages made whites seem like a helpless minority. This led to the rise of the Ku Klux Klan, depicted as saviors restoring order and white supremacy. The film's title reflects the birth of the Ku Klux Klan as a new "nation" of white dominance. This narrative legitimized racist ideologies and justified the oppression of African Americans.

Comparative Analysis

Both films present numerous misrepresentations of African Americans. In "The Birth of a Nation," the "Mammy" character is depicted using "blackface" by a white actress, underscoring the racial insensitivity of the era. The "Mammy" stereotype portrays a servant, often a very dark-skinned and heavyset woman, whose primary concern is fulfilling her master's or mistress's wishes. She is shown as a loyal protector of the white household, becoming a stable figure in the Southern image. Unlike the "Coon," the "Mammy" is depicted as independent and asexual. Throughout "Ethnic Notions," both the "Mammy" and the "Coon" are portrayed as humorous and entertaining. These stereotypes serve to depict African American characters as inferior and subordinate to the white race, reinforcing systemic racism.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both "Ethnic Notions" and "The Birth of a Nation" reveal the deeply ingrained racial prejudices and stereotypes that have historically shaped the portrayal of African Americans in American media and society. These films highlight the damaging impact of racist narratives and underscore the importance of critically examining media representations to challenge and dismantle systemic racism.

References

• Riggs, M. (Director). (1986). Ethnic Notions [Film]. California Newsreel.
• Griffith, D. W. (Director). (1915). The Birth of a Nation [Film]. Epoch Producing Co.