She has been filmed a number of times. The first of six silent film versions was made in France in 1919. The first talking version, and still the best overall film adaptation, was made in at RKO Studios in the United States in 1935.

Helen Gahagan starred as the title character. As Haggard's popularity began to wane, fewer films of his work were made, and, since 1935, only four film adaptations have appeared. A 1965 English film, directed by Robert Day, with Ursula Andress as Ayesha and featuring Christopher Lee, Peter Cushing and John Richardson, is an effective remake.

However, this film's sequel, The Vengeance of She (1965), bears little relationship to Haggard's story.

Students would benefit from reading She and seeing one of the better film adaptations. Discussing the similarities and differences between the two versions would be enjoyable and profitable.

Interestingly, none of the film versions are as bizarre and frightening...