The American Dream

Definition

The American Dream refers to the national ethos of the United States, centered on the idea that prosperity and success are achievable through hard work and determination, regardless of one's background. This concept is deeply embedded in American culture and is often portrayed in cinema as both an aspirational goal and a complex reality, reflecting the hopes and struggles of individuals within society.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The American Dream has been a recurring theme in many classic films, often depicting characters who strive for success but face various obstacles along the way.
2. Orson Welles' 'Citizen Kane' explores the darker side of the American Dream, highlighting themes of wealth, power, and loneliness as the main character accumulates riches yet finds emptiness in his life.
3. The Western genre often embodies the American Dream through narratives of rugged individualism, where characters pursue personal freedom and self-determination in an untamed frontier.
4. In the 1930s, major films often depicted the struggles of ordinary Americans during the Great Depression, showcasing both despair and resilience tied to achieving the American Dream.
5. The emergence of narrative filmmaking coincided with a growing fascination with the American Dream, as filmmakers sought to tell stories that resonated with audiences seeking hope and aspiration.

Review Questions

• How does Orson Welles' 'Citizen Kane' illustrate both the pursuit and disillusionment of the American Dream?
  • 'Citizen Kane' serves as a critical examination of the American Dream by portraying Charles Foster Kane's rise to immense wealth and power, ultimately leading to his isolation and dissatisfaction. The film illustrates how material success does not guarantee happiness, as Kane's relentless pursuit of his ambitions leaves him lonely and unfulfilled. This duality reflects broader societal questions about the nature of success and the cost associated with chasing the American Dream.
• In what ways do classic Westerns reflect ideals associated with the American Dream, particularly regarding individualism and freedom?
  • Classic Westerns often depict protagonists who embody individualism and a quest for freedom, which are core elements of the American Dream. These characters typically venture into uncharted territories to carve out their destinies, symbolizing self-reliance and resilience. Through their struggles against both societal challenges and personal demons, these films portray a romanticized vision of achieving one's dreams against all odds, reinforcing the idea that hard work can lead to fulfillment.
• Evaluate how filmmakers in the 1930s represented the complexities of the American Dream during the Great Depression and its impact on society.
  • During the Great Depression, filmmakers showcased a nuanced portrayal of the American Dream by highlighting both aspirations for success and the harsh realities faced by many Americans. Movies from this era often depicted characters striving for prosperity but also confronting economic hardships that challenged their dreams. This contrast allowed filmmakers to critique societal expectations while simultaneously offering messages of hope and resilience, ultimately shaping public perceptions of what it meant to pursue happiness amidst adversity.

Related terms

Individualism: A social theory that emphasizes the moral worth of the individual and advocates for personal independence and self-reliance.

Social Mobility: The ability of individuals or families to move up or down the social ladder in terms of wealth, education, and occupation, often tied to the opportunities presented by the American Dream.

Manifest Destiny: The 19th-century doctrine that it was the destiny of the United States to expand its territory across North America, reflecting a belief in American exceptionalism.