Scope and arrangement
The Lee Israel research files on Vanessa Redgrave (1982-1987) contain documentation compiled by Israel in preparation for an unauthorized biography which focused on Redgrave's political beliefs and their impact on her theatrical career. The collection consists primarily of subject files and interviews.
Israel conducted interviews with actors, writers, political figures, and Redgrave family members. Small portions of the interviews are quoted or have partial transcripts within the Subject Files, but no full transcripts exist. Audio materials will be subject to preservation evaluation and migration prior to access.
The Subject Files contain articles, letters, clippings, and extensive notes written by Israel on various topics in which Redgrave was involved or vocal about, such as homosexuality, the Black Panthers, the Vietnam War, Palestine, and labor issues. Files on individuals include actors, directors, and producers with whom she worked as well as members of her family. The files on family members contain genealogical material, copies of birth and marriage certificates, and historical notes.
There is a series of index cards in a card file which contain additional notes, citations, library slips, and quotes. Some topics in the card file mirror those in the rest of the subject files. Israel also removed index cards from the card file and added them to the appropriate subject file (often with their original title heading card).
Letters are primarily inquiries sent to actors, writers, directos, political figures, and Redgrave family members requesting information or interviews. They often have accompanying research notes. Only a few responses to Israel are present, though none are substantial. The file also holds correspondence with Nan Talese, Israel's editor at Houghton Mifflin, regarding Israel's progress on the book. Letters to Israel about Redgrave can also be found in the Subject Files.
Audio materials will be subject to preservation evaluation and migration prior to access.
Arrangement
The collection is arranged by format.