Is Mata Hari A Feminist?
Is Mata Hari an early feminist? “It depends on how you define feminism”, says Marijke Huismann, Assistant Professor Public History, Utrecht University, NL. Although Mata Hari wasn’t a suffragette, she was ahead of her time. Professor Husimann explains that “Mata Hari was”proud of her body, proud of her sexuality, and these were themes that were placed on the public and political agenda by the 2nd feminist wave in the 1960’s and 1970’s.” Professor Huismann comments that some might say this is “Booty” feminism. At any rate, Mata Hari was ahead of her time and can be considered a role model for what feminists were trying to achieve in terms of sexual freedom, independence and careers outside the home.
Mata Hari Minute: World War One
World War One was fought on many fronts including propoganda and espionage. Mata Hari became entangled in this complex web and it swallowed her up. It’s been 100 years since the Armistice which led to the end of World War One. November 11, 1918 was a memorable day, finally the bloody, brutal war that had dragged on longer than anyone had imagined was over. We commemorate all those who lost their lives in WWI and Mata Hari was one of them.
Paris, March 1905: Mata Hari’s Debut
Mata Hari made her debut at the Guimet Museum. The library was decorated as an ancient temple complete with columns, palms and a dancing Siva. This rare 11th century bronze Siva is still displayed in the library of the museum where visitors can admire it and stand in the same place where Mata Hari performed for the first time.
Paris, 1916: Mata Hari Suspected by the French Police
In 1916, the French police began following Mata Hari. She had no idea why. They watched her every move in an attempt to catch her spying for the Germans. The Paris inspectors never did find evidence that Mata Hari was passing information to the Germans.
Mata Hari: Arrested February 13th, 1917
Mata Hari was arrested by the French Police. She was accused of being a German spy. Mata Hari vehemently denied the allegations and claimed she was working for French counter-espionage.
