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Joe Clement and Frann Michel review the 2015 Broadway musical, Hamilton. One of the most popular cultural phenomena of the last few years, they interrogate its universal praise. They consider the problems with its Great Man of history take on American history, how Hamilton's authoritarian tendencies are erased and his opposition to slavery is over-stated, the specious subversiveness of casting white slave-owners with people of color. They admit that the actual performance is catchy and entertaining, but contend that this compelling exterior hides a lot. For more critical views, consult The Hamilton Syllabus.
[Image Credit: Wikipedia]
- KBOO