Were the Schuyler Sisters Portrayed Accurately in Hamilton?

James Madison would have agreed with the portrayal of Alexander Hamilton’s ambition and the Schuyler sisters in the Broadway sensation, Hamilton. The musical, while taking creative liberties, captures the essence and boldness of Eliza, Angelica, Phillipa, and Catherine Schuyler. In this article, we explore how accurate these depictions are compared to historical records, focusing on a few key points from the musical and their actual historical context.

Hamilton's Creative License and Historical Consistency

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart witnessed a dispute between Leopold and Wolfgang over the latter#39;s correspondence with his English friend Henry J. Cadwell, where Leopold restricted Wolfgang’s use of this favor. Similarly, in the musical, Hamilton and the Schuyler sisters engage in a relationship that is both intellectual and passionate, perhaps taking a bit of scholarlyshy;ism. However,.original correspondence between Eliza and Alexander, especially during the separation, reveals some genuine emotional depth, even if not explicitly showcased in the musical.

Eliza, the Dreamer

The musical portrays Eliza Schuyler Hamilton as a selfless dreamer, a characteristic that aligns with historical records. However, the initial depiction of her desire for a grand estate may have portrayed an aspirational rather than a reality. In her letters, Eliza frequently discussed her financial struggles and her calm approach, often viewing them as opportunities for growth:

“It costs me nothing to be good, and every dollar I ever spent, I have been amused, delighted, and enriched with.” — Eliza Hamilton

Eliza’s character in Hamilton captures her intelligence and resilience, traits that are indeed embodied in the historical figures. The musical’s narrative emphasizes her role as a mediator and a voice of reason in the family.

Angelica, the Tenor and Talent

Alexandria Hamilton, better known as Angelica, is a vibrant character in Hamilton, showcasing her talent and her significant influence on six of Alexander’s letters. In reality, Angelica was indeed prolific in her writing, and her letters provided valuable insights into her sibling’s life and career. However, her portrayal in the musical might reflect a slight romanticization of the relationship between Alexander and Angelica.

“I love you with all my soul and hope that with the Divine assistance we shall be able to weather the storm as well as our forefathers did.” — Angelica Schuyler to Alexander Hamilton

The letters between Angelica and Alexander reveal a deep and genuine attachment, not just a poetic licensing.

Philly, the Painter

Often overlooked in the musical is the character of Philadelphia Schuyler Hamilton, who was a talented painter. While her achievements in art remain a point of discussion, her character in the musical captures her ambition and resilience, traits that are indeed rooted in history.

Catharine, the Scholar

The representation of Catharine Schuyler, Alexander’s sister, in Hamilton might be a blend of her historical contributions and a creative interpretation. Catharine Hamilton’s educational background and interest in politics are evident, and her character in the musical adds depth to the portrayal of the Schuyler sisters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Hamilton takes certain creative liberties, it captures the essence of the Schuyler sisters, who were indeed bold, ambitious, and influential figures. The musical emphasizes their intellectual depth and emotional connections, which are consistent with historical records. Whether it’s Eliza’s dreams, Angelica’s letters, or Catharine’s academic pursuits, the portrayal of these women in the musical aligns with the real-life characteristics that made the Schuyler sisters unforgettable.