Subcultures Represented in Pop Culture
Definitions
Subculture: An ethnic, regional, economic or social group, which shares ideologies (beliefs) and/or patterns of behavior that distinguishes them from the larger culture. Examples: Republicans, Hippies, Asian Americans
Pop Culture: Popular culture of a wide portion of mainstream society; does not include “high culture” or “high art” (i.e. opera, ballet, traditional forms of poetry). Examples of pop culture mediums/forums: T.V. shows, video games, movies.)
Assignment
We see groups of people represented in all forms of pop culture. The degree to which these representations are accurate or fair, however, varies. Dominant subcultures (White, middle class, heterosexual, male, etc.) are generally seen with the widest range of characteristics suggesting the infinite diversity of the individuals who make up these subcultures. Minority subcultures (Hispanic, lower class, homosexual, etc.) are frequently depicted through stereotypes and caricatures, which do not allow for the differences and individuality within these groups. Still, within certain pop culture mediums/forums, there are some accurate and/or positive representations of minority subcultures.
In this essay you will identify a subculture being represented in some pop culture medium. You may focus on a specific forum (ex. one specific movie), compare and contrast two different forums (ex. two different commercials) or trace a trend of three depictions of a subculture you see across a genre (ex. action films, soap operas). You should analyze how the group is being presented and provide your own evaluation of the fairness and/or accuracy of its presentation. Whatever argument you make, be sure to show specific evidence or examples from your pop culture forum(s) that prove your claim. You will also need to incorporate a college-level secondary source (research and/or analysis about your subculture or your pop culture forum) in order to help you support your argument.
Minimum Requirements
*All requirements must be fulfilled in order to earn a C or above.
-At least 3 full pages (not counting works cited page.)
-At least 1 college-level secondary sources (these do not include the pop culture mediums/forums you are analyzing!!)
-Analysis and evaluation of pop culture medium – not summary and review
-MLA Style