Class struggle

Definition

Class struggle refers to the conflict between different social classes, particularly between the bourgeoisie (the capitalist class) and the proletariat (the working class). This concept is central to many social and political theories, illustrating how economic inequalities can lead to social tension and change. In various artistic movements, class struggle serves as a critical lens through which artists address societal issues and advocate for social justice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Class struggle became a prominent theme in Mexican muralism, where artists like Diego Rivera illustrated the conflict between the working class and the ruling elite.
2. In Modernist photography and cinematography in Mexico, class struggle was often explored through imagery that highlighted social injustices and the plight of marginalized communities.
3. The concept of class struggle is rooted in Marxist theory, which posits that societal progress occurs through conflict between opposing social classes.
4. Artists and filmmakers utilized class struggle as a narrative device to critique social structures and promote awareness of economic disparities.
5. The portrayal of class struggle in visual arts served not just as documentation but also as a call to action for audiences to engage with the social realities depicted.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of class struggle manifest in Mexican muralism, and what role do artists play in this representation?
  • In Mexican muralism, class struggle is vividly depicted through large-scale murals that illustrate the tensions between the oppressed working class and the powerful elite. Artists like Diego Rivera used their work to convey messages of social justice, celebrating the labor movement and critiquing capitalist exploitation. These murals serve as public art that educates and inspires viewers about their own social conditions, making artists key figures in advocating for change.
• Discuss how Modernist photography captured the theme of class struggle in Mexico, including specific techniques or subjects used by photographers.
  • Modernist photography in Mexico utilized stark contrasts, candid shots, and dramatic compositions to effectively capture the struggles of various social classes. Photographers often focused on marginalized communities, documenting their daily lives and hardships to shed light on economic inequality. Techniques such as close-ups of workers in factories or impoverished neighborhoods emphasized the stark realities faced by the proletariat, allowing audiences to confront the systemic issues that contribute to class struggle.
• Evaluate the impact of class struggle as a central theme in both muralism and Modernist photography on Mexican society's political landscape during that era.
  • Class struggle as a central theme in muralism and Modernist photography significantly influenced Mexican society by raising awareness about social injustices and galvanizing public sentiment towards political action. These artistic movements not only reflected prevailing attitudes but also shaped public discourse on economic disparity and labor rights. The emphasis on class struggle helped mobilize various groups toward collective action, ultimately contributing to significant political changes such as labor reforms and increased support for socialist ideologies within Mexico during a time of upheaval.

Related terms

Proletariat: The working class who do not own the means of production and must sell their labor to survive.

Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class who own the means of production and profit from the labor of the proletariat.

Social Realism:

An art movement that aims to depict everyday life and struggles of ordinary people, often highlighting social issues and advocating for reform.