Robert E. Lee

This PBS American Experience biography profiles Gen. Robert E. Lee, the duty-bound Virginian and Confederate hero venerated by many despite his defeat at the end of the Civil War. Narrated by Michael Murphy, the documentary traces Lee's distinguished family background as the son of a Revolutionary War general, his West Point credentials, early military experience, and marriage to Mary Custis, a great-granddaughter of George Washington. Combining visuals such as drawings, paintings, and photographs, with insightful interviews of historians, the film also features voiceovers by Chris Sarandon as Lee and Kara Jackson as Mary to tell parts of the story, such as Mary's desire that her husband spend more time managing their Virginia plantation. With the approach of war, Lee resigned his army commission rather than fight against the South, which he felt was his “country.” A slave owner, Lee shared the common belief that his class had an absolute right to rule. At first dismissed by some as “Granny,” Lee quickly earned respect for his leadership, and maintained a high profile at the front, experiencing early victories followed by despair as his men faced increasingly insurmountable odds. Interviewees note Lee's dignity in surrender and his abiding belief in the glory of the “lost cause” of the Confederacy. An informative look at a fascinating figure, this is recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (S. Rees)