Rétrospective : Marie-Angélique

Rétrospective : Marie-Angélique

This portrait represents Marie-Joseph Angélique, an enslaved woman living in New France, who would later become a symbol of resistance. In 1734, following disputes with her mistress, Angélique was accused and ultimately condemned of setting a fire that would burn down most of what is today’s Old Montréal. Some historians argue that her trial was heavily influenced by racial prejudice, coercion, and unreliable testimonials. The question of her guilt is also massively debated upon to this day. But whether she set the fire ultimately did not matter to the court and the people of Montréal, as Angélique would be tortured until she confessed and hanged, upon which her corpse was burned, and her ashes scattered.

This image does not attempt a historically accurate depiction of Angélique. Instead, it tries to restore her dignity and give her a face, whereas archival records see her as just a legal object. Thus, the story of Marie-Joseph Angélique challenges the myth that the Canadian system of slavery was gentler than those of other colonial powers, and her legacy endures as evidence that enslaved people have always fought for their own autonomy, even at the cost of their own lives.

Annie Beaugrand-Champagne

Beaugrand-Champagne, Annie. “Rétrospective : Marie-Angélique.” 2006. https://www.abeaugrandc.qc.ca/retrospective/Angelique/Angelique.html

Annie Beaugrand-Champagne

2006

Annie Beaugrand-Champagne

Illustration