History Journal 2 Lamarla Fletcher (1) (1)
docx
keyboard_arrow_up
School
Middle Georgia State University *
*We aren’t endorsed by this school
Course
2112
Subject
History
Date
Feb 20, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
4
Uploaded by DoctorLightning11286
Lamarla Fletcher
Professor Matt Jennings
U.S. History
28 October 2023
History Journal 2
“How important is that popular representations of history are historically accurate? What are the benefits and drawbacks of using films to teach history.”
In the television miniseries John Adams, there are a great deal of historical inaccuracies present throughout the series. Some of these inaccuracies are introduced for dramatization and audience engagement. Bringing forth the question how important is accurate representation of popular historical figures and events? Preserving historical integrity should be paramount in depicting historical events whether for education or entertainment purposes. Maintaining integrity will help preserve truthfulness and accuracy in historical events. This is very important as it allows the historian an opportunity to come to an objective and comprehensive understanding of events. Arriving at an objective view of history is challenging as no source material is without influence. Therefore, altering history for the sake of entertainment alone should be frowned upon. Upholding historical accuracy also shows respect for lived experiences. Popular representations are typically pivotal moments in history where profound change occurred. Misrepresenting these pivotal moments can perpetuate myths and misconceptions, which can become widely accepted. Unfortunately, these misconceptions can
foster harmful stereotypes among people and cultural groups. This becomes especially crucial when teaching younger generations as it is important not to teach inaccurate or fictitious versions of history. Having stated that, what are the advantages and disadvantages to using films to teach history? Films offer a unique experience that no other literary work can offer, visual representation. Visual representations of historical events offer great insights into history when used in conjunction with reputable sources. Films have the capacity to condense subject matter into easily digestible chunks unlike certain novels. This can conclude why teachers opt to show students films as opposed to assigning several reading assignments. Due to the condensed nature of films, movie producers often leave out material which can lead to a distortion of events or erroneous characterizations. Films often encourage passive consumption and discourage critical thinking. More compelling films may provide the viewer
with a stronger emotional connection to the characters, leading the viewer not to question the historical accuracy of what is being displayed. In the article, “
What’s Wrong with HBO’s Dramatization of John Adam’s Story.” The author mentions that in the final episode when John and Abigail’s daughter Nabby dies from breast cancer the dates were incorrect. Which led to an incorrect alteration of a Wikipedia article. A simple search could have prevented this. However, this scenario illustrates how movies are perceived too always be most accurate. Television series like “John Adams” can be
a great tool in understanding events and lived experiences; however, it shouldn’t stand as a solely reputable source. In conclusion, maintaining the integrity of popular historical events should continue to be most important.
In our media driven world films and docudramas should be even more
careful to produce accurate information to dispel falsehoods and inaccuracies. Our engagement with history should be done honestly and authentically to preserve information for future generations.
Your preview ends here
Eager to read complete document? Join bartleby learn and gain access to the full version
- Access to all documents
- Unlimited textbook solutions
- 24/7 expert homework help
Work Cited
1.) What’s Wrong with HBO’s Dramatization of John Adams’s Story
. (n.d.). History News Network. http://hnn.us/articles/56155.html
2.) Goettsche Partners. (2010). John Adams
. Amazon
. Retrieved October 28, 2023, from https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/0MF1HVP4J9JM25RQGP3AWDH6ZN/
ref=atv_dl_rdr?tag=justuscock-20.