British popular culture is a continual source of inspiration for the rest of the world. What makes the music, literature, fashion, art and cinema of the British scene so creative, provocative and … cool?
This course will examine the prominent features of British subcultures through the study of different art forms produced in varied times and places, from the swinging 60s to the turn of the millennium, from Liverpool to Manchester to London. It will focus on the ideas and values expressed by subcultures and countercultures, and their relations to the Establishment. It will also examine the impact of British popular culture on marketing, technology and even political life.
The approach will be multidisciplinary, drawing upon aesthetic, historical, sociological and economic points of view.
Students should be prepared to engage in intensive listening, active participation, regular reading and creative writing. Required work will include one oral presentation and two written assignments.

Outline

1- The Swinging 60s: from Yellow Submarine to Quadrophenia
2- Too young to die, Too fast to live: from Glam Rock to Vivienne Westwood, Malcom McLaren and King’s Road
3- Cold Waves over Britannia: Joy Division, The Cure
4- Rebel, Rebel, from art to politics: The Clash, Massive Attack, Banksy, V for Vendetta
5- Britart/Britpop: Damien Hirst, Blur, Oasis, Pulp
6- Cool Britannia: what’s new?

Dernière mise à jour : jeudi 10 décembre 2009