Eiffel Tower

Definition

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought-iron lattice tower located on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France, and was completed in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle, marking the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. It has become an iconic symbol of Paris and a representation of modern engineering, capturing the imagination of filmmakers and artists alike, as well as serving as a backdrop for many cinematic stories set in the city.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Eiffel Tower was designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel and initially faced criticism from some of Paris's leading artists and intellectuals during its construction.
2. Standing at approximately 300 meters tall, it was the tallest man-made structure in the world until the completion of the Chrysler Building in New York City in 1930.
3. The tower is painted every seven years to protect it from rust, using about 60 tons of paint each time.
4. It attracts millions of visitors each year, making it one of the most visited paid monuments globally.
5. The Eiffel Tower has appeared in numerous films, becoming a symbol of romance and adventure associated with Paris.

Review Questions

• How does the Eiffel Tower serve as a representation of Parisian identity in film?
  • The Eiffel Tower symbolizes not only the architectural innovation of Paris but also its cultural significance. In films set in Paris, it often represents romance, aspiration, and the artistic spirit of the city. Its presence can evoke emotions and provide viewers with a sense of place that defines Paris as a cinematic playground where stories unfold against this iconic backdrop.
• Analyze how international co-productions utilize the Eiffel Tower to represent global cities and their narratives.
  • In international co-productions, the Eiffel Tower functions as a visual shorthand for Paris, instantly communicating themes of love, sophistication, and cultural depth. Filmmakers leverage its iconic status to engage audiences around the world by embedding it within their narratives. By including this landmark, productions enhance their storylines while simultaneously promoting tourism to Paris, showcasing how global cities are portrayed through recognizable symbols.
• Evaluate the significance of the Eiffel Tower within silent era city films and how it reflects urban modernity during that time.
  • In silent era city films, the Eiffel Tower emerged as a powerful symbol of urban modernity and technological progress. Its construction coincided with a period of rapid industrialization and innovation in cities worldwide. Filmmakers used the tower to emphasize themes of progress and transformation within urban landscapes, contrasting traditional settings with modern advancements. This interplay not only highlighted Paris's role as a center for cultural development but also showcased how filmmakers captured the essence of modernity through significant urban landmarks.

Related terms

Exposition Universelle: A world's fair held in Paris that showcased innovations in technology, art, and culture, where the Eiffel Tower was first unveiled.

Parisian Skyline: The unique silhouette of Paris characterized by its historic architecture, with the Eiffel Tower often serving as a focal point in visual representations.

Cinematography: The art of photographing and recording motion pictures, crucial for capturing the aesthetic beauty of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower in film.