Empire and Popular Culture: Volume II

The Empire began to influence the domestic culture of Empire nations from 1830, promoting a sense of identity as citizens of an Empire. However, the popular culture often portrayed Empire as a force for 'civilization' while it was, in reality, a repressive mechanism benefiting white settlers and the metropolitan economy. This collection of primary sources, complemented by editorial narratives, explores the celebratory and notorious aspects of Empire through documents from England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, as well as indigenous perspectives. It considers how Empire permeated the British public sphere, including exhibitions, spectacle, and entertainment.

Format: Hardback
Length: 438 pages
Publication date: 31 January 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

From 1830, if not earlier, the Empire began to deeply influence the domestic culture of Empire nations in numerous ways. This influence extended from everyday consumables to the thrill of colonial wars, celebrations commemorating significant events in Empire history, and the establishment of Empire Day in the early Edwardian period. The government actively encouraged citizens to view themselves not only as nationals of a particular nation but also as part of a larger Empire.

Much of the popular culture of the time portrayed the Empire as a force for 'civilization,' but this portrayal often bore little resemblance to the truth. In reality, the Empire was a repressive mechanism designed primarily to benefit white settlers and the metropolitan economy.

This four-volume collection on 'Empire and Popular Culture' presents a diverse range of primary sources, accompanied by editorial narratives that aid in understanding the significance of the documents contained therein. The collection is informed by the recent advocacy of a 'four-nation approach to Empire,' which includes documents that view Empire from the perspectives of England, Scotland, Ireland, and Wales, as well as indigenous perspectives. The sources offer a comprehensive view of both the celebratory and notorious aspects of Empire.

In this volume, we explore the ways in which the Empire permeated the British public sphere, examining exhibitions, spectacles, and entertainment. We examine how these forms of cultural expression shaped public perceptions and attitudes towards the Empire, and how they contributed to the construction of a shared imperial identity.

Through the analysis of these primary sources, we gain insight into the complex and multifaceted nature of Empire and its impact on the lives of individuals and communities across the globe. The collection serves as a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of Empire and its enduring legacy.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781138495074