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Samuel Smith, Purist
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Samuel Smith, Purist
SAMUEL SMITH - pure-minded member of Parliament who attacked stage immorality, describing The belle of New York as a glorification of the vulgarest debauchery. Date: 1836 - 1906?
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Media ID 14105632
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1836 Attacked Belle Debauchery Describing Member Minded Parliament Pure Samuel Glorification Immorality Smith
EDITORS COMMENTS
Samuel Smith: The Unyielding Moral Crusader (1836-1906) This evocative photograph captures the stern and resolute visage of Samuel Smith, a man renowned for his unwavering moral convictions and relentless crusade against stage immorality during the late Victorian era. As a member of Parliament, Smith's unyielding stance on the issue earned him the moniker of a 'Purist.' The year is 1836, and the social fabric of England was undergoing a significant transformation. The theater scene, in particular, was a hotbed of controversy, with productions that glorified the most vulgar and debauched aspects of human nature. Smith, a man of unquestionable moral fiber, saw it as his duty to protect the public from the corrupting influence of such immoral displays. One production that sparked Smith's ire was "The Belle of New York," a popular play that had recently graced the London stage. Smith denounced the production as a glorification of the most base and debauched behavior, a view shared by many at the time. However, his vocal opposition to the play earned him both admiration from those who shared his values and scorn from those who saw his stance as an attack on artistic freedom. Despite the criticism, Smith remained steadfast in his beliefs, continuing to advocate for moral purity in the arts and in society as a whole. His unwavering commitment to his cause earned him a place in history as a champion of morality and a defender of the virtues of the Victorian era. This photograph, taken sometime between 1836 and 1906, serves as a poignant reminder of a time when moral crusades and social reform were at the forefront of public discourse. Smith's unyielding spirit and unwavering commitment to his beliefs continue to inspire us today, a testament to the power of conviction and the importance of standing up for what is right.
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