This Tuesday 28th January, Goethe Institute brings yet another inspiring, touching film, a story of Saartjie Baartman, a black domestic who, in 1808, left Southern Africa, then ruled by Dutch settlers, following her boss Hendrick Caesar in hopes of finding fame and fortune in Europe. Once in London, her master-turned manager exhibits her as “The Hottentot Venus” in a phony and humiliating carnival show. After a series of troubles caused by their act, Caesar, Saartjie and their new friend, bear-tamed Reaux, head for Paris where once again, and against her will, she has to mimic savagery and expose her body, first in carnivals, then in the aristocratic salons of Paris, later on among the libertines and finally in brothels where she ends up being a prostitute.
This story is based on historical evidence. Black Venus will be screened at 6.30pm at Goethe Institute. As usual, entrance will be free.
