Context Flashcards
What is the Old South?
The term used to refer to the agrarian southern states of America which relied on farm work of slaves for the economy before the Civil War
What is meant by the ‘Death of the South’?
This refers to the collapse of the economy post-Civil War in the southern states of America, due to the removal of the slave trade.
What is a Southern Belle?
An feminine archetype associated with The Old South which prescribed traditional morals, values and behaviours on women
What is the New South?
This refers to the southern states of America initially post-Civil War, as they became a blend of people with growing progressive values, and people still holding onto traditional values
What is meant by ‘New America’?
This term applies to the quickly industrialising and modernising America which had growing progressive values.
What is Anthony Rotundo’s theory of ‘Self Made Manhood’ vs ‘Passionate Manhood’?
‘Self-Made’ manhood refers to a traditional form of manhood based of being a provider for the family. ‘Passionate’ Manhood became far more focused on proving one’s masculinity through possessions, outward appearances and control of the family unit.
How did World War 2 impact gender roles in America?
During the war, women had been allowed to take up men’s roles in society and had gained elements of personal and financial freedom, so when the men returned from the war it results in conflict as some women were unwilling to give up that freedom.
What is the Hays Code?
A moral code that was applied to Hollywood films in America during the 1920’s - 1950’s which censored the inclusion of showing topics like sexuality, violence, homosexuality and other moral taboos at the time.
How did the Hays Code impact Elia Kazan’s 1951 production of ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’? (3 answers)
*Blanche’s sexuality and promiscuity was dampened
*Alan’s sexual ‘transgressions’ were completely removed
*The violent acts towards women were reduced, and in the case of Blanche’s assault, completely removed
What is the title of ‘A Streetcar Named Desire’ inspired by?
Tennessee Williams lived in New Orleans and frequently saw the “indiscourageable progress” of two streetcars named Cemetries and Desire and believed it was a metaphor for life.
