The Bondian Cold War: The Transnational Legacy of a Cultural Icon

James Bond, created by Ian Fleming, is often seen as a Cold Warrior, but his portrayal of the Cold War differs from the global conflict in subtle ways. The Bondiverse, comprising novels, films, video games, and more, offers a multi-dimensional perspective on Cold War culture and has inspired various homages and competitors. A conference in 2019 explored the literary and cinematic aspects of Bond, fact versus fiction, and gender and sexuality in the Bondiverse, contributing to a better understanding of Bond as a global phenomenon.

Format: Hardback
Length: 270 pages
Publication date: 01 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

James Bond, the iconic and enduring spy created by Ian Fleming, is often perceived as a Cold Warrior, but his portrayal of the Cold War diverges in subtle yet significant ways from the actual global conflict. This tension between the real and fictional world offers insights into Cold War culture that transcend ideological and geopolitical boundaries. The Bondiverse, a vast and intricate tapestry encompassing novels, films, video games, and even a comic strip, has not only inspired numerous homages, parodies, and competitors but also demands a multi-disciplinary approach to fully appreciate its rich possibilities.

In June 2019, a conference titled "The Bondian Cold War" was convened at Tallinn University, Estonia, bringing together participants from three continents and diverse disciplines, including film studies, history, intelligence studies, literature, and intelligence practitioners. The conference aimed to explore the literary and cinematic aspects of the spy, examine the interplay between fact and fiction in the Bond canon, seek a global perspective on Bond, and delve into gender and sexuality within the Bondiverse.

This collection of essays, inspired by the conference, serves as a valuable resource for students, researchers, and enthusiasts alike, offering insights into Bond as a global phenomenon that transcends traditional East-West divisions and extends beyond the end of the Cold War, from which he emerged. The essays explore various themes and aspects of Bond's character, his relationships with women, his encounters with different cultures, and the broader socio-political context of the Cold War era.

By examining Bond through a multi-disciplinary lens, the contributors to this volume shed light on the enduring appeal of the character and his role in shaping Cold War culture. The essays provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of Bond, challenging preconceptions and offering new perspectives on his legacy. Whether you are a fan of the Bond films, a scholar of Cold War history, or simply interested in exploring the complexities of global politics and popular culture, this book will captivate and inspire you.

Weight: 690g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367569365