Mrs. Lincoln's Dressmaker

With the bulk of Elizabeth’s character development anchored from the historical figure, Chiaverini highlights the professional peak of Elizabeth’s life. In doing so, Elizabeth’s character demonstrates the Resilience and Agency of Black Women. Elizabeth endured years of exhaustive labor, saving hundreds of dollars to purchase her and George’s freedom, an incredible feat. Her industriousness never fades, and Elizabeth’s ambition for herself and her son grows as they move north. Uncomfortable in being separated from George, Elizabeth “could more easily bear the miles separating her from her only child knowing that he was acquiring the education she herself had always longed for and had been denied, and that no man could claim him as property ever again” (2). Elizabeth’s horrific experiences from her time in captivity shape her ever-optimistic worldview later in life. Having already endured much suffering, Elizabeth chooses to see the best in situations, like being separated from George, while others might shower themself with self-pity.

Elizabeth highly values loyalty in her professional relationships and her close friendships. When a patron attempts to use Elizabeth to get close to Mrs. Lincoln, Elizabeth firmly states, “Madam, you are mistaken in regard to my character. Sooner than betray the trust of a friend, I would throw myself into the Potomac.