Abraham Lincoln's wife faced criticism for various aspects of her life, from her spending habits to her emotional reactions. Despite this, two new plays are shedding a more positive light on her.
During the Civil War, doubts arose about the loyalty of the First Lady, who came from a slave-owning family and had relatives fighting in the Confederate Army. Even after her husband's assassination in 1865, she continued to face disapproval from the public. However, a new play called Mrs. President is offering a fresh perspective on Mary Todd Lincoln, focusing on her relationship with renowned photographer William Brady.
The play delves into the tensions between Mrs. Lincoln and Brady as they navigate portraying her in a positive light. It also raises questions about who controls one's public image. The playwright aims to humanize Mrs. Lincoln and showcase her as a complex individual, challenging historical caricatures.
Despite her turbulent life, Mary Todd Lincoln found solace in her marriage to Abraham Lincoln, although their differences strained their relationship. Scholars have debated her character, portraying her alternatively as a supportive partner to the President and a troubled figure. New interpretations of her story aim to depict her as a multifaceted and resilient woman deserving of empathy.