American Dream

Definition

The American Dream is the national ethos of the United States, centered around the idea that anyone, regardless of their background, can achieve success and upward social mobility through hard work and determination. This concept plays a significant role in shaping narratives in film, often reflecting both aspirations and the realities of American life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Dream emerged after World War II, symbolizing hope and prosperity for returning soldiers and their families, highlighting themes of homeownership and economic stability.
2. Many films from the 1950s showcase characters pursuing the American Dream but ultimately reveal the disillusionment that accompanies these aspirations.
3. The Hollywood musical genre often celebrated the American Dream through narratives of love, success, and community while providing escapism during tough times.
4. Cinematic portrayals of the American Dream frequently address moral ambiguity, showing that achieving success can involve ethical compromises.
5. The concept of the American Dream has evolved over time, reflecting changing social values, including issues related to race, gender, and class disparities.

Review Questions

• How do films from the 1950s reflect themes of disillusionment related to the American Dream?
  • Films from the 1950s often depicted characters striving for the American Dream but ultimately faced disillusionment as they encountered obstacles such as societal expectations and economic struggles. These narratives highlighted how hard work did not always guarantee success and revealed a more complex reality behind the idealized notion of upward mobility. The contrast between aspiration and reality resonated deeply with audiences and provided commentary on post-war American life.
• In what ways did the Hollywood musical contribute to shaping perceptions of the American Dream during its development?
  • The Hollywood musical played a key role in shaping perceptions of the American Dream by portraying vibrant stories of love, ambition, and community through song and dance. These films often emphasized optimism and the idea that happiness was attainable through hard work and talent. By presenting fantastical scenarios where characters overcame adversity through their dreams, musicals reinforced a positive image of success that resonated with audiences seeking hope during challenging times.
• Evaluate how changing social values in the 1950s influenced cinematic representations of the American Dream and its implications on society.
  • In the 1950s, shifting social values influenced how filmmakers represented the American Dream, as issues such as racial equality, gender roles, and class struggle began to emerge in popular narratives. As audiences became more aware of disparities in achieving this dream, films began to reflect these tensions by highlighting characters who faced systemic barriers to success. This evolution not only challenged traditional notions of what it meant to attain the American Dream but also sparked conversations about equity and inclusivity in American society.

Related terms

Social Mobility: The ability of individuals or families to move up or down the social ladder within a society, often influenced by education, income, and job opportunities.

Materialism: The preoccupation with material possessions and physical comfort, often linked to the pursuit of success and happiness in the context of the American Dream.

Disillusionment:

A feeling of disappointment resulting from the discovery that something is not as good as one believed it to be, often explored in film as characters face the harsh realities of the American Dream.