Scenes of Subjection: Terror, Slavery and Self-Making in Nineteenth Century America by Saidiya Hartman [Paperback]

Scenes of Subjection by Saidiya Hartman is a profound re-evaluation of American history, focusing on the overlooked and routine forms of violence inherent in 19th-century slavery and its enduring legacies. By shifting focus from dramatic spectacles of brutality to the everyday mechanisms of domination—such as notions of humanity, enjoyment, and consent—Hartman uncovers the deep roots of racial subjugation in Enlightenment ideals. Drawing on the margins of historical archives, the book explores the intersections of slavery, image-making, and systemic racism, while also examining possibilities for Black resistance and transformation.

This updated edition includes new contributions that further contextualize Hartman’s groundbreaking work, highlighting its ongoing relevance in understanding contemporary racial injustices.