Wyl.P5.T9 Contemporary Synthesis

Contemporary Era Synthesis Question

2. Define "pop culture" and explain how certain examples of art--you choose at least one example from dance, music, painting, drama (theater), and novel writing--help to define it. What is the sensibility of "pop culture"? (Research Questions 5, 8, 9)

#2) Pop culture can be defined as ‘commercial culture based on popular taste’. However, the more accessible definition of pop culture describes it as whatever is trending within the younger generation; what songs are on the radio? Which TV shows are the most talked about? Who is the new teen heart throb? The answers to these questions would all fit the category of pop culture. Additionally, pop culture would most likely involve certain ideas or movements that are somewhat non-traditional, and that members of an older generation may object to.

One example of pop culture in the world of theater is the show, Spring Awakening. Spring Awakening was actually written in Germany in the 1800s, but due to the controversial nature of the show, was not extremely popular until recently. The play was reconstructed into musical format and set in the 19^th century, to the sound of rock music. The play deals with issues such as suicide, sex, abortion and abuse, among teenagers. These ideas, which today’s younger generation identifies with immensely, coupled with the current and exciting musical score, and finally, the fact that parents don’t generally approve, all make Spring Awakening the perfect example of a pop culture piece.

The nature of the contemporary era is a resistance to conformity and uniformity. There is a constant, unrelenting desire among teens these days to be unique and stand out. As a result, interestingly enough, “standing out” is now what’s popular and it is no longer unique. Pop culture in the contemporary seeks to satisfy these cultural trends and to define this era as its own sensation, of a like that has never before been seen. The truth of the matter is, however, and to the great dismay of the teen generation, that it has all been done before. Of course the Justin Biebers, Twilight Movies and Wickeds of this time belong solely to the contemporary era. But in terms of the idea of non-conformity, ‘pissing off’ your parents, and going against the norm, the statement, “history repeats itself”, has never been more true.   

Audrey Ford
Nicki Quiles
Gus Shettleroe