Emory College Study Abroad
Robben's Table to Freedom
University of Cape Town, Fall 2015
Robben Island, South Africa
Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his life imprisoned on Robben Island. I traveled to the island to understand his journey for peace from an oppressive government. In my South African history course, I learned about the complexity of the island as a symbol. The island used to be a leper colony and is a sacred place for the Muslim community. I was surprised at how small the island was and the beauty it exhibited. This picture is the view from one edge of Robben Island with a clear image of Table Mountain present in the background. I found this exquisite view to be the most troubling part about Robben Island. How did political prisoners endure such hardship on the island with Cape Town appearing so close? I am amazed at the determination of the prisoners to form community within the island and stay optimistic as prisoners were unfairly exiled to Robben Island during Apartheid. Today, the island serves as a reminder to never forget the repressive history that still haunts South Africa.
Robben's Table to Freedom
University of Cape Town, Fall 2015
Robben Island, South Africa
Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his life imprisoned on Robben Island. I traveled to the island to understand his journey for peace from an oppressive government. In my South African history course, I learned about the complexity of the island as a symbol. The island used to be a leper colony and is a sacred place for the Muslim community. I was surprised at how small the island was and the beauty it exhibited. This picture is the view from one edge of Robben Island with a clear image of Table Mountain present in the background. I found this exquisite view to be the most troubling part about Robben Island. How did political prisoners endure such hardship on the island with Cape Town appearing so close? I am amazed at the determination of the prisoners to form community within the island and stay optimistic as prisoners were unfairly exiled to Robben Island during Apartheid. Today, the island serves as a reminder to never forget the repressive history that still haunts South Africa.