"Nationalising Femininity" by Christine Gledhill is a captivating exploration of the complex interplay between gender and national identity in British cinema. Focusing on the years 1930-1945, Gledhill conducts a thorough analysis of female characters on screen, revealing how their portrayals were shaped and manipulated to reflect and reinforce prevailing national ideologies.
Throughout the book, Gledhill examines the depiction of women across various genres, such as melodrama, historical films, and wartime propaganda. She skillfully uncovers how these representations both adhered to and challenged established gender norms, demonstrating the deep entanglement between the construction of femininity in British cinema and the nation's aspirations, anxieties, and dominant belief systems surrounding class, race, and sexuality.
One of the book's strengths lies in its attention to the intersectionality of gender and national identity. Gledhill illuminates how the portrayal of female characters was shaped by the socio-historical context in which they existed. She closely examines how changing political climates and evolving notions of national identity during the interwar period and World War II influenced the shifts in women's representation on film.
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What sets "Nationalising Femininity" apart is Gledhill's meticulous research and nuanced analysis. She presents a wealth of detailed evidence and carefully supports her arguments, making the book an invaluable resource for both scholars and enthusiasts interested in the study of gender, film, and national culture.
In conclusion, "Nationalising Femininity" offers a compelling exploration of the intricate relationship between gender, national identity, and cinema. Gledhill's book provides a fresh perspective on the representation of women in British films from the 1930s to the 1940s, shedding light on their construction and performance within the medium. With her insightful analysis and extensive research, Gledhill makes a significant contribution to the fields of film studies and gender theory.
What are readers saying?
"Nationalising Femininity: Culture, Sexuality and Cinema in World War II Britain" is a well-regarded book by Christine Gledhill that delves into the intricacies of gender and sexuality in British cinema during World War II. The book explores how the British government sought to manipulate and control femininity for nationalistic purposes, examining the films produced during this period and their impact on popular culture.
Reviews for "Nationalising Femininity" are overwhelmingly positive, praising Gledhill's extensive research and insightful analysis. Readers appreciate the author's exploration of the connection between cinema and national identity, as it sheds light on the social and political climate of the era.
One of the book's strengths is its accessibility, as Gledhill presents complex ideas and theories in a clear and engaging manner. Reviewers find her arguments well-supported and compelling, with each chapter offering valuable insights into the role of women in wartime Britain and the portrayal of femininity in cinema.
Gledhill's attention to detail is frequently mentioned, with readers appreciating her comprehensive examination of the various film genres and subgenres of the time. Her analysis of individual films and their portrayal of women is considered thought-provoking, deepening readers' understanding of the societal dynamics at play during the war.
An aspect that resonates with readers is Gledhill's exploration of the power dynamics between the British government and the film industry. By investigating how the government attempted to shape the representation of femininity in cinema, the author illuminates the complex interplay between politics and popular culture during this period.
NationalisingFemininity FeministLiterature WomenEmpowerment