Uncle Tom's Cabin By Harriet Beecher Stowe: An Analysis

Harriet Beecher Stowe created a story written to bring attention to the cruelty of slavery during her time not only made a vast impact on America, but affected those across the globe. “Uncle Tom’s Cabin” strongly appealed to human emotions and Christian faith, which lead to the novel being read roughly 300,000 times after its release. Not long after, the story began to be modified into plays, starting off in theatres such as Baltimore and New York. However it was quickly discovered that many of these shows would not live up to Stowe’s remarkable novel. In fact, most directors hardly attempted to stay true to the story at all. For instance, C.W. Taylor’s version in New York closed after just eleven performances, proving to be only a mockery

Conway’s dreadful attempt of bringing Stowe’s story on stage took place. Although Barnum’s is home to Conway’s short lived show, it is widely known and credited for much more. Located from 1841 to 1865, at the corner of Broadway and Ann Street in Lower Manhattan, Barnum’s held exhibitions and amusements. For an admission of twenty-five cents, visitors were able to view a series of attractions, including a wildlife exhibition, an aquarium, paintings, wax figures, memorabilia, a lecture room, and theatres all in one place. Due to its variety, the museum drew all kinds of visitors, from different social classes and with varying interests. It was known as a pivotal institution in the development of urban culture. The museum is a great example of how popular culture was mixing with the nation’s social and political life during the antebellum era. It wasn’t until after the Civil War, that African Americans were allowed into the museum. The museum was burned down on July 13, 1865 when a fire destroyed it. While most were saddened to hear about the museum, however there were many who cheered at the news of its destruction. Barnum reopened the museum at a different location shortly after, but once again, it burned down in 1868. After this, Barnum decided to open a circus instead, which is widely known