Zombies

Definition

Zombies are fictional undead creatures that typically feed on human flesh, often characterized by a shuffling gait and a lack of intelligence. In genre theory, zombies represent various cultural anxieties, including fears of societal collapse, loss of identity, and the dehumanization prevalent in modern life.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The modern concept of zombies emerged in popular culture with George A. Romero's film 'Night of the Living Dead' (1968), which established many conventions associated with the genre.
2. Zombies often symbolize social fears, including consumerism, technology's impact on society, and the loss of individual agency in contemporary life.
3. The portrayal of zombies has evolved over time, shifting from mindless creatures to more complex figures that can represent deeper psychological and societal issues.
4. Zombie narratives frequently explore themes of survival, community, and ethical dilemmas faced by characters in extreme situations.
5. The zombie genre has expanded into various media, including video games, television series like 'The Walking Dead,' and literary works, illustrating its pervasive influence in contemporary culture.

Review Questions

• How do zombies function as symbols of societal anxieties in contemporary narratives?
  • Zombies serve as powerful symbols reflecting societal anxieties such as fear of the unknown and loss of individuality. They can represent the dangers of consumerism, where mindless consumption parallels the mindless behavior of zombies. Additionally, their existence raises questions about identity and humanity, prompting audiences to reflect on what it means to be alive or human in a rapidly changing world.
• Analyze the evolution of the zombie genre from its early representations to contemporary interpretations.
  • The zombie genre has transformed significantly since its inception with 'Night of the Living Dead,' where zombies were primarily depicted as mindless monsters. Contemporary interpretations have introduced more nuanced portrayals that explore psychological depth and societal issues. Films like '28 Days Later' and TV shows like 'The Walking Dead' examine themes of survival, morality, and community amidst an apocalypse, showcasing how zombies have become metaphors for broader human experiences.
• Evaluate the impact of video games on the portrayal and cultural significance of zombies within media.
  • Video games have played a crucial role in shaping the portrayal and cultural significance of zombies, allowing for interactive experiences that engage players in survival scenarios. Titles like 'Resident Evil' and 'Left 4 Dead' not only reinforce traditional zombie tropes but also introduce elements such as strategic thinking and cooperative gameplay. This interactivity deepens players' emotional investment in the narrative while expanding the zombie mythos to address themes like teamwork and moral choices during crises, highlighting how this medium influences perceptions of zombies beyond mere horror.

Related terms

Apocalypse: A catastrophic event or series of events that leads to the end of civilization, often depicted in zombie narratives where society is overrun by the undead.

Post-Apocalyptic Fiction: A genre of literature and film set in a world after a catastrophic event, frequently featuring zombies as a primary threat to the remaining survivors.

Ghoul: A mythical creature similar to zombies, often depicted as a corpse that has been reanimated, particularly in Middle Eastern folklore.