US Society since World War II - A Cinematic Exploration

Post World War II America has been marked by profound transformations in society, politics and culture as well as in the country's standing and position in world affairs. We will begin by examining attitudes and values during the deceptively conformist 1950?s with the goal of contrasting mainstream culture with the increasingly diverse country which grew out of WWII. Our discussion of these subcultures will intensify with he close examination of the more turbulent society of the 1960's and 1970's, followed by the conservative backlash that began in the 1980?s. We will then begin the difficult and sometimes confusing examination of the 1990?s and early 21st century, characterized by an increasingly polarized and fragmented political and cultural landscape as well as by a country deeply traumatized by the 9/11 attacks. Students will thus gain an understanding of the profound transformations which have occurred in American culture over this period. For each period discussed, we will watch a movie.