This blog is in response to a Thinking Activity given by our professor Dilip Barad sir, https://blog.dilipbarad.com/2020/02/introduction-to-cultural-studies.html this is the link of sir's blog you can go there and see more details about this task. In this blog I am going to Write about Cultural Studies in Practice and which approach of CS is applied in the reading of play 'Hamlet', 'poem 'Coy Mistress' and novel 'Frankenstein'.
Here is my two blogs on CS:-
Cultural Studies in Practice:
Introduction:
Cultural Studies is a multidisciplinary field that explores the complex interplay of culture, society, and power. It offers valuable insights into how culture shapes our identities, beliefs, and interactions. In this blog, we will delve into Cultural Studies in practice, examining how it enables us to understand and critique various aspects of society.
1. Media and Representation:
Cultural Studies often scrutinizes the media's role in shaping our perceptions of race, gender, and class. Media representations play a significant part in constructing our understanding of different cultures and identities. By analyzing films, television shows, advertisements, and news media, Cultural Studies practitioners uncover how these representations can reinforce stereotypes or challenge dominant narratives.
For example, the study of African American representations in film can reveal how historical racial biases persist in contemporary media. Cultural Studies helps us question why certain narratives are promoted while others are marginalized.
2. Identity and Intersectionality:
Cultural Studies places a strong emphasis on intersectionality—the interconnected nature of various social identities such as race, gender, sexuality, and class. It helps us understand how these intersecting identities influence individuals' experiences and the systems of oppression they may face.
Through the lens of Cultural Studies, we can explore topics like the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals of color, shedding light on the unique challenges they encounter at the intersection of multiple identities. This perspective fosters greater empathy and informs social justice efforts.
3. Popular Culture Analysis:
Cultural Studies often focuses on popular culture, including music, fashion, and social media. These elements shape our everyday lives and reflect broader social trends and values. By studying popular culture, we gain insights into societal norms, desires, and anxieties.
For example, the study of viral internet challenges can reveal how youth culture engages with and comments on social issues. It can also illuminate how such challenges spread, influence behavior, and create cultural phenomena.
4. Globalization and Cultural Flows:
In a globalized world, Cultural Studies explores the flows of culture, information, and ideas across borders. This perspective allows us to analyze cultural exchanges and the impact of globalization on local cultures.
Through Cultural Studies, we can examine the spread of Western cultural products like fast food and consumer brands to other parts of the world. This analysis can reveal how globalization can both homogenize and diversify cultures, leading to complex and often contradictory outcomes.
5. Cultural Resistance and Subversion:
Cultural Studies doesn't just critique the existing condition ; it also looks at how individuals and groups resist dominant cultural narratives and norms. Through acts of resistance, marginalized communities challenge oppressive systems.
For instance, the study of hip-hop music and its role in expressing the experiences of Black communities in the United States demonstrates how culture can be a tool for resistance, activism, and social change.
Conclusion:
Cultural Studies in practice offers a critical lens through which we can analyze and question the cultural, social, and political forces that shape our world. By understanding how culture influences our beliefs, behaviors, and identities, we can become more informed and engaged citizens, actively working towards a more inclusive and equitable society. Cultural Studies reminds us that culture is not merely entertainment; it is a powerful force that can both perpetuate and challenge systems of power and oppression.
Now let's see which approach of CS is applied in the reading of play 'Hamlet', 'poem 'Coy Mistress' and novel 'Frankenstein'.
1. The reading of play 'Hamlet':
Reading 'Hamlet': Two Characters: 1. Rosencrantz
2. Guildenstern
In the practice of cultural studies, examining secondary characters in classic literary works such as 'Hamlet' can reveal deeper insights into the dynamics of power, identity, and marginalization. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, two characters in Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' are prime examples of individuals marginalized and manipulated by those in positions of power, and their experiences offer a rich case study in this context.
1. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern: The Marginalized Pawns:
At first glance, Rosencrantz and Guildenstern appear to be Hamlet's childhood friends, summoned by King Claudius and Queen Gertrude to investigate the root of Hamlet's erratic behavior. They are portrayed as sympathetic characters, seemingly acting out of concern for their friend. However, their role in the court's political machinations quickly exposes the underlying dynamics of manipulation and marginalization.
2. Manipulation by the Court:
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are not equal participants in the unfolding drama at the Danish court. They are mere pawns, manipulated by the powerful figures of King Claudius and Queen Gertrude. Their loyalty to Hamlet is in conflict with their allegiance to the king, and they become instruments used by the court to further their own interests.
3. Instruments of Surveillance:
The primary function of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern is to spy on Hamlet and gather information for the king. They are enlisted to betray their friend's trust and engage in surveillance, a theme with contemporary implications in discussions about privacy and government surveillance.
4. Marginalization and Power Imbalance:
The power imbalance is stark in 'Hamlet.' Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, despite their noble backgrounds, are marginalized by the royal court, and they find themselves in an impossible situation. They are virtually powerless to refuse the king's wishes, even when those wishes involve spying on a friend.
5. Tragic Fate and Consequences:
Ultimately, the marginalization of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern leads to their tragic fate. Hamlet discovers the contents of the letter intended for the King of England and changes it to ensure their execution instead. This twist of fate underscores the extent of their marginalization and the grim consequences they face.
6. Broader Societal Implications and Cultural Studies:
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern's story in 'Hamlet' has broader implications that resonate with contemporary issues. In cultural studies, it's essential to examine how individuals are marginalized and manipulated within power structures, and the consequences they face.
In modern society, we can draw parallels to individuals who are coerced or marginalized within larger systems, whether in the workplace, politics, or social structures. The narrative of Rosencrantz and Guildenstern reminds us to consider the moral dilemmas faced by those who find themselves marginalized and how power dynamics can lead to tragic outcomes.
Through cultural studies, 'Hamlet' and its secondary characters provide a lens through which we can analyze and understand issues of marginalization, power, and manipulation in our own time, illuminating the enduring relevance of Shakespeare's work in contemporary society.
Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead
by Tom Stoppard
"Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead," written by Tom Stoppard in 1966, is a celebrated metatheatrical play that reimagines two minor characters from William Shakespeare's "Hamlet" in the spotlight. The play revolves around Rosencrantz and Guildenstern, who often find themselves in bewildering and absurd situations as they grapple with questions of identity, existence, and the interplay of fate and free will.
Set against the backdrop of Shakespeare's "Hamlet," the play raises profound existential questions. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern confront the absurdity of life, where they seem to lack control over their own destinies, much like pawns in a larger theatrical game. This theme underlines the age-old philosophical debate between determinism and free will, with the characters oscillating between being actors in their own lives and passive observers.
A striking feature of Stoppard's play is its meta theatricality. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are aware of their existence within a play, and they often question the nature of reality and the boundaries between fiction and life. This self-awareness leads to moments of humor and thought-provoking insights, as the characters grapple with their limited understanding of their roles and the larger narrative.
The play's clever wordplay, witty humor, and absurd situations make it a work of comedic brilliance. It's a clever reinterpretation of Shakespeare's classic, offering a fresh perspective on the human condition, the search for identity, and the often-irrational aspects of life. "Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead" continues to captivate audiences with its profound philosophical undertones and its unique blend of humor and existential reflection.
2. Reading 'To His Coy Mistress - Implied Culture versus Historical Fact:
Andrew Marvell's poem "To His Coy Mistress" is a classic example of the complex interplay between implied culture and historical context. Written in the 17th century, this metaphysical poem explores themes of love, time, and seduction. To understand the poem in the context of implied culture versus historical fact, we need to consider the prevailing attitudes, values, and beliefs of the time.
1. Implied Culture:
In the poem, the speaker passionately implores his coy mistress to yield to his advances, arguing that time is fleeting and that they should seize the moment to enjoy their love. The poem reflects a culture of courtly love, where elaborate, flowery language and hyperbolic expressions of affection were commonplace.
The implied culture in the poem is one of chivalry, romanticism, and the idea of a love that transcends time and physical constraints. The speaker employs elaborate metaphors and flattery to persuade the mistress to give in to their desires. This culture values the idea of idealized, eternal love, where lovers are willing to wait and pine for each other.
2. Historical Fact:
While the poem portrays a culture of courtly love and idealized romance, the historical context of the 17th century tells a different story. The 17th century was marked by political turmoil, religious conflict, and social change. Marvell himself lived during a time of great upheaval, including the English Civil War and the execution of King Charles I.
The historical reality of the 17th century was one of uncertainty and impermanence. People faced the challenges of war, social upheaval, and political instability. In this context, the implied culture of idealized, patient courtship in "To His Coy Mistress" may seem somewhat disconnected from the historical facts of the time.
3. The Tension Between Implied Culture and Historical Fact:
Marvell's poem highlights the tension between the implied culture of courtly love and the historical reality of an unstable and changing world. The speaker's urgency in persuading his mistress to act quickly reflects the underlying awareness of the fleeting nature of time, influenced by the uncertainties of the historical context.
In this tension, "To His Coy Mistress" invites readers to consider the complexities of love, desire, and the human experience. It suggests that even in times of upheaval and impermanence, people may still seek solace in the idealized cultural norms and expressions of love, even as they grapple with the realities of the world around them.
In conclusion, "To His Coy Mistress" encapsulates the interplay between implied culture and historical fact, offering a glimpse into the complexities of love and desire in a world marked by change and uncertainty. It serves as a reminder that cultural expressions of love often endure, even in the face of historical challenges and shifting realities.
Reading 'Frankenstein' - From 'Paradise Lost to Frank-N-Furter: The Creature Lives!
"Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley is a novel with deep literary and cultural connections, and one of the most intriguing aspects is its relationship with other works of literature and popular culture. In the essay "From 'Paradise Lost' to Frank-N-Furter: The Creature Lives!" we explore how Shelley's "Frankenstein" draws from John Milton's "Paradise Lost" and its continued influence on contemporary culture, including the character of Frank-N-Furter from "The Rocky Horror Picture Show."
1. "Frankenstein" and 'Paradise Lost': A Literary Connection:
One of the most prominent literary influences on Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein" is John Milton's epic poem "Paradise Lost." This 17th-century work tells the story of the fall of Lucifer and the creation of mankind by God. In "Frankenstein," the parallel between the two texts is striking. Dr. Victor Frankenstein, in his ambition and desire for knowledge, mirrors the figure of Prometheus, who defied the gods by stealing fire and giving it to humanity. The creature he creates becomes a modern Adam, abandoned by his "god," Victor.
The "Paradise Lost" connection is crucial for understanding the novel's themes of creation, ambition, and the consequences of playing god. The idea of the creature as both an innocent Adam and a fallen Lucifer encapsulates the duality of humanity and the potential for both good and evil.
2. From Literature to Popular Culture: Frank-N-Furter and 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show':
The influence of "Frankenstein" extends beyond literature and into popular culture. A notable example is the character of Frank-N-Furter from "The Rocky Horror Picture Show," a cult classic film and stage production. Frank-N-Furter, portrayed by Tim Curry, is a mad scientist who creates a human-like creature named Rocky.
The character of Frank-N-Furter is a modern reinterpretation of Victor Frankenstein, reimagined with a flamboyant and gender-bending twist. The connection between "Frankenstein" and "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" is not limited to themes of creation and monstrosity; it also explores themes of sexual identity, desire, and societal norms.
3. The Continuing Influence: 'Frankenstein' in Contemporary Culture:
The enduring appeal of "Frankenstein" lies in its ability to resonate with contemporary concerns. The ethical and moral questions raised by Shelley's novel continue to be explored in science, technology, and bioethics. The consequences of unchecked scientific ambition are themes that have only become more relevant with time.
Moreover, the character of Frank-N-Furter from "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" demonstrates how "Frankenstein" has permeated popular culture and remains a source of inspiration for subversive and boundary-pushing narratives.
In conclusion, "Frankenstein" is a novel that not only draws from literary classics like "Paradise Lost" but also continues to influence and inspire contemporary culture, as evidenced by the enduring legacy of characters like Frank-N-Furter. The novel's themes of creation, ambition, and societal norms continue to captivate and challenge readers and viewers alike, making it a work that truly stands the test of time.
Conclusion:-
In summary, Cultural Studies provides us with a powerful lens through which to examine the complex dynamics of culture, society, and power. It allows us to critique and understand media representation, delve into the intricacies of identity and intersectionality, analyze the influence of popular culture, and explore the impact of globalization and cultural flows. Moreover, it reminds us of the potential for cultural resistance and subversion, emphasizing the role of culture in both perpetuating and challenging systems of power.
In the case of the literary works we discussed, Cultural Studies comes to life in the reading of 'Hamlet,' 'To His Coy Mistress,' and 'Frankenstein.' In 'Hamlet,' it uncovers the dynamics of power, manipulation, and marginalization within the Danish court. In 'To His Coy Mistress,' it sheds light on the tension between implied culture and historical fact, revealing how culture persists in challenging times. Finally, in 'Frankenstein,' it highlights the enduring influence of literature and its role in shaping contemporary culture through both highbrow and subversive forms of art.
Cultural Studies, both as a discipline and in practice, serves as a valuable tool for understanding our world and the ways in which culture influences our beliefs, behaviors, and identities. It encourages us to be critical thinkers and active participants in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society.
Thank you so much for reading this blog...
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