I never realized how much of a struggle it was back in history when famous historians, theologians, etc. tried to alter and change the meaning of popular culture, and give it to the ordinary rather than the elite. "Popular art confirms the experience of the majority," said Russel Nye. The idea of popular culture simply defining what is going on right now in culture, rather than challenging it with new ideas to move forward.
It's also cool to see that the "Rights Revolution" steamed from the change in definition of popular culture. I've learned how much of a revolution there was when the idea of popular culture was changing. I feel as though it is easy to take for granted the things that we have in this world as well as the ideas that we generate. These historians and other famous people of the past that helped alter the idea and meaning of pop culture were true revolutionaries, and had courage to stand up for change. They took a lot of hits because they were bold enough to say that pop culture was different than what it was originally known for.
It is interesting to me to see how the role of movies and cinema had such an effect on entertainment and popular culture. "The movies," wrote Sklar, "were the first medium of entertainment and cul- tural information to be controlled by men who did not share the eth- nic or religious backgrounds of the traditional cultural elites" (Robert Sklar, Movie-Made America: How the Movies Changed American Life (New York: Random House, 1975).) I completely agree with this idea that it was a great way in media to broadcast other ideas that differed from those of the elites, whom popular culture previously belonged to.
I always say popular culture as we define it today isn't a bad thing, but then again, saying that sort of makes me feel like a hypocrite when I think about elitist popular culture of the past, because I also feel as though everyone should strive to move forward and advance themselves, especially in the arts and sciences (which I realize together encompass just about everything... now that I think about it). It's difficult to say whether “higher culture” is equal to or greater than its counterpart. They both have their upsides.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, Aisa, when you write: "The idea of popular culture simply defining what is going on right now in culture, rather than challenging it with new ideas to move forward."
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