The Construction and Dynamics of Cultural Icons

This volume provides an overview of existing theories, compares different definitions, and proposes a comprehensive view of the icon and the iconic, focusing on the making of iconic representations and their changing social-cultural meanings through time.

Format: Hardback
Length: 238 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2021
Publisher: Amsterdam University Press

This volume makes a significant contribution to the study of cultural icons, departing from the current emphasis on cultural models in public discourse. It explores a wide range of cultural icons, from traditional religious figures to modern mass media icons, from recognizable visual symbols to intricate combinations of images and collective narratives. Providing an overview of existing theories, the book compares different definitions and offers a comprehensive perspective on the concept of the icon and the iconic.

In particular, it delves into the processes of creating iconic representations and the evolving social-cultural meanings associated with them over time. Scholars from cultural memory studies, art history, and literary studies present concrete operationalizations of how different types of cultural icons can be studied, offering valuable insights into the complexities and dynamics of these cultural phenomena.

By expanding our understanding of cultural icons, this volume contributes to a more nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the role of culture in shaping our world. It sheds light on the ways in which symbols, images, and narratives can convey profound cultural values, influence public opinion, and shape our collective identity. Whether examining religious icons, media celebrities, or visual symbols of popular culture, The Construction and Dynamics of Cultural Icons provides a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of cultural phenomena.

Weight: 640g
Dimension: 161 x 241 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9789463728225