Examples of constructing history through film, the three fictional narratives which are the focus of Sandra Grayson's study provide insight into how the role of the African American woman has been overlooked to the point of suppression. The women in these works are presented as warriors, educators, healers, seers, oral historians, as well as mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives. Through research into archival materials and study of the symbols encoded in the films themselves, Symbolizing the Past reveals the gap between the reality of black mythic history and its representation.

"Grayson's 'Symbolizing the Past' is an important contribution to African American studies, black cultural studies, and women's studies. . . . she challenges contemporary scholars of African American studies to go beyond a generic Africa in their work, to contend with the diverse and distinct cultures of 'The Continent.'" - American Literature