Derivative Images: Financial Derivatives in French Film, Literature and Thought

A theoretical, interdisciplinary reading of French film and literary texts inspired by the 2008 global financial crisis is called "Crisis Chronicles." It explores the connections between economic instability, social unrest, and the representation of the individual in contemporary culture.

Format: Hardback
Length: 200 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2022
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

A comprehensive and interdisciplinary analysis of French film and literary texts, drawing inspiration from the global financial crisis of 2008.

This project explores the complex relationship between the financial crisis and the representation of economic and social inequality in French cinema and literature. By examining the ways in which these texts address issues such as wealth distribution, corporate power, and the impact of economic downturns on individuals and communities, we aim to understand how the crisis has shaped the cultural and political landscape of France.

The global financial crisis of 2008 had a profound impact on French film and literature, inspiring a theoretical and interdisciplinary reading of these texts. This project aims to explore the complex relationship between the financial crisis and the representation of economic and social inequality in French cinema and literature. By examining the ways in which these texts address issues such as wealth distribution, corporate power, and the impact of economic downturns on individuals and communities, we hope to understand how the crisis has shaped the cultural and political landscape of France.

The financial crisis of 2008 was a significant event that had a profound impact on the world economy, and France was not immune to its effects. The crisis led to a sharp decline in economic growth, a rise in unemployment, and a decrease in household wealth. These economic challenges were reflected in French cinema and literature, with many films and texts exploring the impact of the crisis on individuals and communities.

One of the most notable ways in which the crisis was represented in French cinema was through the use of economic metaphors and symbols. Many films depicted the financial industry as a ruthless and corrupt entity, with characters such as bankers and investors portrayed as greedy and self-serving. This portrayal was often used to critique the power of the financial sector and to highlight the inequalities that it perpetuated.

Similarly, French literature also explored the impact of the crisis on individuals and communities. Many authors wrote about the struggles of ordinary people who were affected by the economic downturn, such as workers who lost their jobs or small business owners who were forced to close their shops. These texts often depicted the crisis as a social and economic catastrophe that had a devastating impact on the lives of those who were least able to afford it.

In addition to exploring the impact of the crisis on individuals and communities, French cinema and literature also addressed the political implications of the crisis. Many films and texts explored the role of government and regulatory agencies in responding to the crisis, and the ways in which they were either ineffective or complicit in perpetuating the inequalities that had led to the crisis. This analysis was often used to critique the political establishment and to advocate for greater social and economic equality.

Overall, the theoretical and interdisciplinary analysis of French film and literary texts, drawing inspiration from the global financial crisis of 2008, provides a valuable insight into the ways in which the crisis has shaped the cultural and political landscape of France. By examining the complex relationship between the financial crisis and the representation of economic and social inequality, we can better understand the challenges that France faces in the years to come and the ways in which it can respond to them.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474486453