Clark Gable

Definition

Clark Gable was a prominent American actor and leading man during Hollywood's Golden Age, best known for his roles in classic films such as 'Gone with the Wind' and 'It Happened One Night'. His charisma and rugged good looks made him a cultural icon and a symbol of masculinity in American cinema, particularly during the 1930s and 1940s.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Clark Gable's breakout role came in 1934 with 'It Happened One Night', which earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
2. Gable became known as 'The King of Hollywood' due to his box office appeal and widespread popularity during the Great Depression.
3. He starred alongside Vivien Leigh in 'Gone with the Wind', which won ten Academy Awards and solidified Gable's status as a cinematic legend.
4. Gable's acting style combined charm, wit, and vulnerability, making him relatable to audiences during an era marked by economic hardship.
5. Throughout his career, Gable appeared in over 60 films, becoming one of the highest-paid actors of his time and influencing future generations of actors.

Review Questions

• How did Clark Gable's persona reflect the ideals of masculinity during the 1930s?
  • Clark Gable embodied the ideals of masculinity during the 1930s through his rugged good looks, charm, and ability to portray strong yet vulnerable characters. His performances resonated with audiences facing economic challenges during the Great Depression, as he often played roles that combined resilience with a touch of romanticism. This connection made him an enduring figure in cinema, appealing to both men and women who identified with his character traits.
• In what ways did Clark Gable's films influence American culture during the Great Depression?
  • Clark Gable's films provided audiences with an escape from their daily struggles during the Great Depression. Movies like 'It Happened One Night' offered comedic relief while also highlighting themes of love and resilience. His on-screen charisma and relatable characters allowed viewers to momentarily forget their hardships, helping to shape cultural attitudes towards romance and heroism during this tumultuous period. Gable's success also contributed to the idea that cinema could be both an entertainment medium and a reflection of societal values.
• Evaluate Clark Gable's impact on the evolution of Hollywood stardom and its connection to broader societal changes in America.
  • Clark Gable's impact on Hollywood stardom was significant, as he helped redefine what it meant to be a leading man in American cinema. His combination of rugged masculinity and emotional depth resonated with audiences amidst changing societal values during the 1930s. As America faced economic turmoil, Gable represented a form of escapism while also embodying characteristics admired in a nation striving for recovery. His legacy paved the way for future stars by demonstrating how celebrity status could intertwine with cultural identity, influencing generations of actors who followed in his footsteps.

Related terms

Golden Age of Hollywood: The period from the late 1920s to the early 1960s characterized by the dominance of major studios, lavish productions, and the emergence of iconic movie stars.

Film Noir: A genre of films characterized by their cynical attitude, moral ambiguity, and visual style that often features low-key lighting and urban settings.

Gone with the Wind: A 1939 epic historical romance film that became one of the most popular and critically acclaimed films of all time, featuring Gable as Rhett Butler.