Introduction to postmodernism

Postmodernism

You wot?

Post = After Modernism = Now or up to date Bit of a contradiction in terms

Modernism

1st ½ of C20th

Modernism

An attempt to express the upheavals and uncertainties of the time

In art, traditional forms were rejected Art was no longer ‘realistic’ Poetry didn’t have to rhyme Books didn’t use proper sentences or even

words.

From this

to this

and from this

to this

Postmodernism

2nd ½ C20th

Postmodernism

Definition

Postmodernism is often associated with a revolt against authority and signification and a tendency towards pastiche, parody quotation, self referentiality and eclecticism.

The Fontana Dictionary of Modern Thought

‘…revolt against authority and signification…’

Does not reflect the standard order of things Rebels against mainstream ideas Subverts what is considered fashionable and

appropriate Tend to play with images and ideas rather

than stress bow down to ‘high art’

Playing with an image

…and

‘…pastiche, parody quotation…’

They refer to, borrow from and sometimes outright copy other, older or contemporary texts (often to make fun of, or point out the absurdities of the ideas behind those texts).

‘…self referentiality…’

Means that postmodern texts often refer to their own construction– The text knows it’s a text and will make fun of

itself

To conclude – sort of

Postmodernism is:

Ironic Playful Nostalgic Chops things up an re-arranges them Borrows from other styles Makes fun of genres, texts and narratives