Intolerance

Definition

Intolerance refers to the unwillingness to accept views, beliefs, or behaviors that differ from one's own. In the context of early American cinema, this term highlights the prejudices and societal divides represented in films, particularly in relation to race, class, and ideology. These themes were especially pronounced in the works of influential filmmakers, who used their platforms to both reflect and challenge societal norms, revealing the complexities and contradictions of American identity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. D.W. Griffith's film 'The Birth of a Nation' is often cited as a significant example of intolerance in cinema, as it perpetuated racist stereotypes and glorified the Ku Klux Klan.
2. Intolerance in early films reflected broader social tensions in America, particularly regarding race relations during and after the Reconstruction era.
3. Griffith's pioneering techniques in film were overshadowed by the backlash against his controversial narratives that promoted division rather than unity.
4. The portrayal of marginalized groups in early cinema often reinforced existing societal prejudices, limiting representation and promoting stereotypes.
5. Critics argue that Griffith's work contributed to the normalization of racial intolerance in popular culture, impacting public perception and attitudes towards race for generations.

Review Questions

• How did D.W. Griffith's work illustrate the concept of intolerance within early American cinema?
  • D.W. Griffith's work exemplified intolerance through his controversial depictions of race and his reinforcement of harmful stereotypes. His film 'The Birth of a Nation' portrayed African Americans in a derogatory light and glorified the KKK as heroes. This not only reflected existing societal prejudices but also helped to perpetuate them in American culture, demonstrating how film can serve as a powerful tool for both reinforcing and challenging intolerant ideologies.
• In what ways did early American cinema both reflect and challenge societal attitudes toward intolerance?
  • Early American cinema acted as a mirror to societal attitudes by depicting prevailing racial stereotypes and cultural norms while simultaneously offering platforms for critique. While films like 'The Birth of a Nation' propagated intolerance, other filmmakers began to challenge these narratives by showcasing diverse stories and perspectives. This duality highlights the potential of cinema to influence public perceptions and foster discussions about acceptance and diversity.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of intolerance depicted in early American cinema on contemporary film narratives and society's view on diversity.
  • The long-term impact of intolerance portrayed in early American cinema continues to resonate today, shaping contemporary film narratives around race, identity, and social justice. The stereotypes established in these early films have had lasting effects on audience perceptions and representations in media. As filmmakers increasingly confront these historical issues and strive for more accurate portrayals of marginalized communities, the dialogue surrounding intolerance has evolved. This ongoing evolution emphasizes the importance of recognizing past injustices while promoting inclusivity and understanding in modern cinema.

Related terms

Racism: A belief or ideology that one race is superior to another, often manifesting in discrimination, prejudice, or antagonism against individuals based on their racial or ethnic identity.

Censorship: The suppression or prohibition of speech, public communication, or other information that may be considered objectionable or sensitive by authorities.

Cultural Hegemony: The dominance of one cultural group over others, often manifesting through the promotion of specific values and norms as the societal standard.