topic information
I am interested in examining the ways in which the mass media has contributed to both a world perception and an internalized (Irish) perception of Irish culture/identity. I am curious to see whether the ways in which we view the Irish are biased by their portrayal in various media elements such as tv/film/magazines/newspapers. Likewise, I want to know if the Irish in turn exaggerate or downplay their culture in response to this? I am also curious to see if there is a difference between the way(s) in which the Irish speak about/portray themselves versus "outside" commentators. Is their tendency to be more truthful or more "fantastic?" Are they more likely to present an accurate picture and understanding of their culture or are they equally biased in their own manner? This sort of also brings to light the idea of "contestation of ownership," at least in terms of the Irish culture (as we perceive it) as really "belonging" to the Irish or something that has been foisted upon them and subsequently adopted by the people. Also, what is important in their culture and why? Is their portrayal of this importance a facade or truly existant? Has the need for their own "identity" caused them to accept views, etc. that possibly might not have achieved such status or importance if not influenced by the outside world? I think this is a valuable question to be considered since I believe strongly that their culture has survived (intact) because it remains within a tangible setting at all times.
My source material will probably vary widely. I am hoping to have some interviews with people I know who have lived both in Ireland and within the "greater Western world," in the hopes that they can provide a link between both worlds or offer experiences that argue for or against the above questions. I am sure I will have various films/newspaper articles/television commercials etc. that will play a role in the development of this topic. And of course, I cannot forget the large stack of books and articles which I never fail to request of the very obliging Interlibrary Loan folks. :)
posted by ~Abi~ @ 11:36 PM
3 comments
3 Comments:
OK, looks good. I think the issue of how Irishness is "modeled" in popular culture is particuilarly interesting and would make a particularlyl good topic. In other words, how has "Irishnness" been "marketed"? In Irish culture, this is sometimes called "paddywhackery," and, though it is often rather derogatory, it has served as a useful means of economic advancement for Irish musicians and performers. This is rather similar to what happened with African-Americans in many eras of American music--that is, they were required to play a caricatured or stereotypical part, but playing that part nevertheless gave them economic and career-advancement opportunities they wouldn't have otherwise had.
Can you formulate as a thesis?
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I would agree that Eric and I share similarities in our research. Having begun reading for this paper, I rapidly realized that in order to discuss how Irish culture is and has been portrayed is rather dependent on its past. Knowing this has made it necessary to read over large parts of the nation's history in order to understand the attitudes, beliefs, and situation which have shaped internal perceptions of cultural identity and consquently, the way in which that (identity) has translated worldwide. Eric and I both are looking at ways in which society and culture have developed, though I would argue that he is examining more directly a particular factor that influenced that development, while I am considering the way in which that development has affected interpretation of the culture. However, we could share various sources since history plays a large role in both of our topic areas.
I also feel there are some similarities between Esther's and my research. Though we are researching different topics, we both mention Irish 'identity.' Furthermore, we both seek to provide an explanation of that identity and how it derived part of its existence from outside sources. Likewise, we also want to discuss how that identity has evolved over time. Our research ideas also both mention viewing a 'tangible' part of Irish culture both through the view of both 'insiders' and 'outsiders.' Though the focus of our research differs, we both cite personal interviews as important sources within our research because they provide insights to tradition and heritage, and the ways in which people participate in their culture.
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