News Summary
The Lourie Lecture Series in Columbia recently celebrated the contributions of southern women in literature and film. Local writer Ann Humphries discussed Julia Mood Peterkin’s groundbreaking writings, while Dr. Alice Taylor-Colbert explored the evolving portrayal of southern women in classic films. Together, their insights inspired attendees to reflect on societal norms and the changing roles of women throughout history.
Exploring Southern Women’s Influence Through Poetry and Film in Columbia
If you happen to be in Columbia and are over the age of 50, there’s a delightful event just for you that shines a spotlight on the remarkable contributions of southern women to literature and cinema. As part of the Lourie Lecture Series, two fascinating speakers recently took the stage to delve into the lives and legacies of these pioneering women, leaving the audience both inspired and enlightened.
Celebrating Literary Icons
On March 26, the Lourie Center, a vibrant hub for senior activities managed by Senior Resources, hosted an engaging lecture that featured Ann Humphries, a talented local writer and poet. Her presentation, titled “Gamechanger: The Life and Writings of Julia Peterkin,” captivated attendees as she explored the life of a woman who made history in South Carolina.
Now, who was Julia Mood Peterkin, you ask? This intriguing figure was a trailblazer, being the only South Carolinian ever to win the Pulitzer Prize for Literature for her novel “Scarlet Sister Mary,” which hit the shelves in 1929. Born in 1880, Peterkin spent most of her life on a plantation in Calhoun County. Her extraordinary writings intricately wove the experiences of both the white landowners and the enslaved people, creating narratives that blended fiction with her own personal experiences. What set her apart was her ability to challenge societal norms regarding gender and class while exploring themes that many might consider risqué or dark.
Adding to the intrigue, Humphries herself has published her first poetry book, “An Eclipse and A Butcher,” released by Muddy Ford Press, which reflects her personal journey living with adult-onset blindness. She discussed how her poetry beautifully intertwines with her experiences of navigating the world through a different lens, offering a compelling connection to Peterkin’s themes of struggle and resilience.
Reevaluating Southern Women in Film
But that’s just one slice of the event! The audience also had the privilege of hearing from Dr. Alice Taylor-Colbert, who brought an engaging perspective on how southern women have been portrayed in classic films like “Gone with The Wind” and “Steel Magnolias.” Through her insightful lecture, she urged the audience to take a step back and reevaluate what it truly means to be a southern woman and the expectations they faced throughout history.
Dr. Taylor-Colbert made poignant comparisons between iconic characters, such as the strong-willed Scarlett O’Hara and the nurturing Mammy, alongside others like Melanie and Prissy. She beautifully highlighted how the roles and representations of women evolved significantly during pivotal historical moments, including the Civil War and both World Wars. It raised an important discussion about the biases against southern women and how their roles have continually transformed over the decades.
Encouraging Thoughtful Discussions
The Lourie Lecture Series is more than just a gathering; it’s a rich tapestry that weaves together storytelling, education, and inspiration. The discussions sparked during this enlightening afternoon are not only essential for understanding the past but also for recognizing the evolution of women’s roles within southern culture. The intent behind these talks is to encourage all of us to think critically about societal norms and biases that still resonate today.
For those interested in hosting a Speakers Bureau member for their own community events or just wanting to learn more, there’s a wealth of information available online. It’s a fantastic way to keep the conversation flowing about the remarkable impact of southern women in different realms of life.
So, if you missed this enlightening lecture, don’t fret! There will be more opportunities to engage with stories that shape our understanding of history and culture right here in Columbia.
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Additional Resources
- Columbia University Lions News
- Police1: College Degree and Female Officers
- NCAA Women’s Basketball Updates
- Wikipedia: Julia Mood Peterkin
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Julia Mood Peterkin
