Leonora Sansay
Secret History; or, the Horrors of St. Domingo
In a Series of Letters, Written by a Lady at Cape Francois, to Colonel Burr, Late Vice-President of the United States, Principally During the Command of General Rochambeu
"Secret History; or, the Horrors of St. Domingo" by Leonora Sansay is a historical novel written in the early 19th century. The narrative unfolds through a series of letters written by a woman in Cape Francois to Colonel Burr, reflecting on the tumultuous events surrounding the Haitian Revolution. This work explores themes of social upheaval, gender roles, and personal despair amidst the backdrop of political chaos. The opening of the novel introduces the protagonist as she reflects on her journey to St. Domingo after an arduous sea voyage. Upon arrival, she finds the town in ruins following the devastation of the revolution, leading her to witness the suffering and resilience of the local French families. As she details the struggles of her sister in an unhappy marriage, the author sets the tone for both personal conflict and the greater societal upheaval, giving readers a glimpse into the complex emotions and tensions of the time. The letters reveal the historical context of violence and suffering, augmented by the protagonist's inner thoughts and experiences with various characters, adding depth to the narrative.