In the Matter of Nat Turner: A Speculative History

In 1831, Nat Turner led a slave rebellion in Virginia that killed fifty-five whites, mostly women and children. This novel provides a new interpretation of Turner's life and rebellion, exploring his intellectual development, religious cosmology, and motivations. It also critically examines William Styron's 1967 novel, The Confessions of Nat Turner, which restored Turner to the American consciousness in the era of civil rights, black power, and urban riots.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 14 June 2022
Publisher: Princeton University Press

In 1831, a significant slave rebellion occurred in Southampton County, Virginia, led by Nat Turner. This rebellion resulted in the tragic loss of fifty-five white lives, predominantly women and children. After evading capture for over two months, Turner was apprehended and swiftly convicted and executed.

The historical portrayal of Turner often reduces him to a confused mystic and self-proclaimed Baptist preacher. However, In the Matter of Nat Turner delves deeper to uncover the enigmatic persona of this legendary American slave rebel. It explores his journey of self-discovery and the emergence of his Christian faith, as well as the seemingly impossible task entrusted to him by God. The book also delves into the concept of redemptive violence and profane retribution, which played a significant role in Turner's actions.

While much about Turner's life remains shrouded in mystery, his extraordinary account of his rebellion, recorded in chains while awaiting trial in jail, has left a lasting impact on American history. It was written down by an opportunistic white attorney and sold as a pamphlet to capitalize on Turner's notoriety. However, Turner's rebellion remains one of the most significant events in American history.

Christopher Tomlins, in his book, provides a luminous account of Turner's intellectual development, religious cosmology, and motivations. He offers an original and insightful analysis of the Turner Rebellion itself and its profound impact on Virginia politics. Tomlins also critically examines William Styron's 1967 novel, The Confessions of Nat Turner, which brought Turner back into the American consciousness during the era of civil rights, black power, and urban riots.

In the Matter of Nat Turner is not merely a speculative history that reconstructs Turner's life from the limited evidence available. It also serves as a unique speculation about the meaning and purposes of history itself. The book challenges readers to consider the ways in which historical narratives shape our understanding of the past and the present. It prompts us to question the biases and assumptions embedded within these narratives and to explore alternative perspectives that may have been overlooked or marginalized.

Through its comprehensive exploration of Nat Turner's life and rebellion, In the Matter of Nat Turner offers a fresh and compelling perspective on a pivotal moment in American history. It sheds light on the complexities of slavery, race, and religion, and challenges us to confront the enduring legacies of these historical events. This book is a valuable addition to the literature on American history and should be read by anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the past and the potential for positive change in the present.

Weight: 592g
Dimension: 155 x 233 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780691204185