Lecture (1 hour inclusive of lecture and Q&A)
Over the centuries, the threat of an impending apocalypse has often been used as a theme within literature to express social and political change and any accompanying fears. Since the twentieth century, whilst this theme continues in literature, films have also taken up this legacy.
This lecture will look at the message and method of ancient apocalyptic literature and compare this to the themes and motifs of the Hollywood disaster movie. Topics include the environment, religion, global politics, biological weapons and surveillance.
The lecture will examine the theme of apocalypse as a message for change throughout history, and ask to what extent Hollywood films have an impact on public consciousness or are in fact inspired by public opinion.
Themes discussed include:
- Social and political comment in ancient apocalyptic literature
- Motifs in ancient apocalyptic literature
- The aim of the Hollywood blockbuster
- The use of apocalyptic motifs in film
For maximum benefit and skills development, students will be expected to take notes during the lecture. There will be a chance for questions and discussion of the issues raised at the end.
Seminar (1 hour)
This seminar will further develop the role of modern media, including both film and television, in promoting political or social issues, reflecting events in current affairs or historical trends.
Students will be encouraged to think of and discuss their own examples of apocalyptic films, or other examples from the medium of television, music, literature and art, which they consider to have an important message for the viewing audience.
The accuracy of such films in the information they provide and their perspective in the portrayal of events will be discussed. The effectiveness of films and television in making an impact on public opinion will be raised, and, finally, students will be asked what topics they think the apocalyptic Hollywood blockbuster will focus on in the future.
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