The first book in the series Race and American Culture, Lott's study of the origins of blackface proved to be one of the most favourably received academic books in 1993. Its sophisticated analysis of antebellum race relations appealed to a cross-disciplinary readership in history, literature, and cultural studies. The paperback edition is certain to be taught in upper level courses in African American Studies, and will also continue to be purchased by individual scholars and students.
Readership: Scholars/students of American studies, cultural studies, and American history.
Eric Lott, Associate Professor of English, University of Virginia
"`original and erudite study ... A clever, disciplined, and resourceful reading of the commonplace: a pioneering study that, though somewhat academic, will no doubt influence more popular studies' Kirkus Reviews"
"This work is an entertaining and thought-provoking account of the relationship between the development of blackface minstrelsy and the white male working class in the United States." - Race Relations Abstracts, Vol. 22, No. 1
