MartinHafer
In this episode of "The American Experience", instead of focusing on big events or important historical figures, the show is about a very obscure woman and a part of our history we very, very rarely talk about. It's the story of a midwife who lived in Maine in the late 18th and early 19th century. Not only did she deliver babies, but this lady worked on curing a wide variety of maladies--using various folk medicine. This was THE way most folks dealt with medical issues in the day--doctors just weren't that common, plus they were, for the most part, really incompetent.This story comes from the diaries left by the midwife , Martha Ballard, and were brought to life in Laurel Ulrich's Pulitzer Prize-winning book. The story is, uncharacteristically, told not with narration but with interviews (often with Ulrich) as well as LOTS of recreations. The recreations were very lovingly made and took a lot of effort--and I commend the show for this. And, it's a very important historical document of the times. However, as a retired history teacher, I realize that MANY couldn't care less about this sort of mundane history--so it's for a very select sort of audience. The story also does seem quite depressing at times--and gets worse as it progresses. But, if you have some patience and appreciation, I recommend you see it.By the way, the show has a bit of nudity. But, before you get all worked up about this, it's all VERY non-sexual and appropriate for the program. I wouldn't have any problem with kids seeing this but know that some folks simply will go crazy when you see an actress playing dead and her breasts are exposed. Relax....
janet-conant
I first saw this American Experience years ago and it left a lasting impression. Had to read the book but always wanted to see that dramatization. Just bought the DVD the other day. In short nothing I have seen or will ever see again seems so genuinely realistic as what life was like back in the late 1700's for a midwife-housewife. It was like a window into a time lost. I can only admire this woman for all her selfless tiresome drudgery to aid other women in their labor and to nurse sick and dying children.The actors are amazing especially Ms. Lee, who was perfectly cast as Martha Ballad. She has such caring eyes and as she ages shows the wear and tear from such hard labor. To think that her written words are now part of history. How wonderful that she made her own ink and put it all down on paper. A must see for all.
