Making Stars: Biography and Celebrity in Eighteenth-Century Britain

The essays in "Making Stars" explore the intersection of biography and celebrity in the eighteenth century, challenging traditional understandings and revealing a more diverse and egalitarian celebrity culture than previously thought.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: Associated University Presses

The essays in Making Stars delve into the intricate relationship between biography and celebrity, challenging prevailing understandings of both. While the concept of biography did not emerge in the eighteenth century, this period witnessed the rise of works that celebrate individuals for their everyday lives, rather than solely for their status or actions. Simultaneously, celebrity emerged as a public fascination with the private lives of publicly visible individuals. Although biography and celebrity are interconnected, their relationship is complex and multifaceted, as explored in this volume. Contributors present a comprehensive picture of eighteenth-century celebrity culture in Britain, highlighting its pervasiveness, diversity, and, in many ways, egalitarian nature.

In the eighteenth century, the concept of biography began to take shape, shifting the focus from collective narratives to individual stories. This shift coincided with the rise of celebrity culture, where the private lives of publicly visible individuals became the subject of widespread fascination. While biography and celebrity are often seen as distinct entities, they are mutually constitutive, with each influencing and shaping the other.

The essays in Making Stars explore the complex interplay between biography and celebrity, examining how they are constructed, disseminated, and consumed. Contributors present a range of perspectives, from historical analysis to cultural critique, shedding light on the ways in which eighteenth-century celebrity culture shaped society and individual identity.

One of the key themes explored in the volume is the notion of mediation. Contributors demonstrate that eighteenth-century celebrity culture was not limited to a single medium or platform but was mediated across multiple sites, including print media, public performances, and social networks. This multiplicity of sites allowed for a broader and more diverse audience to engage with celebrity, and contributed to the creation of a more egalitarian celebrity culture.

Another important aspect of eighteenth-century celebrity culture is the emphasis on the individual. Unlike earlier forms of celebrity, which were often associated with royalty or religious figures, eighteenth-century celebrity was focused on ordinary people who had achieved remarkable success or notoriety. This shift in focus allowed for a greater sense of empathy and identification with celebrities, as they were seen as relatable and accessible.

However, the essays in Making Stars also raise important questions about the ethical implications of celebrity culture. As celebrities become increasingly visible and influential, they are often subjected to intense scrutiny and criticism from the public and media. This can lead to a loss of privacy, a distortion of public perception, and even harm to individuals.

In conclusion, the essays in Making Stars provide a rich and nuanced exploration of the relationship between biography and celebrity in the eighteenth century. By challenging prevailing understandings of both, the volume offers a fresh perspective on the cultural and social significance of celebrity in this period. Through its examination of mediation, individualism, and the ethical implications of celebrity culture, Making Stars contributes to our understanding of the complex and multifaceted nature of celebrity in modern society.

Weight: 656g
Dimension: 155 x 235 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644532645