Gangster culture

Definition

Gangster culture refers to a subculture that romanticizes and glorifies the lives of criminals, particularly those involved in organized crime. This culture is characterized by specific values, aesthetics, and behaviors that are often depicted in media, including film and music, where elements like loyalty, power, and street smarts are celebrated. Within this framework, urban environments play a significant role, shaping the narratives and imagery associated with gangster lifestyles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gangster culture has roots in early 20th-century America, particularly during the Prohibition era when organized crime flourished.
2. Films like 'The Godfather' and 'Scarface' helped cement gangster culture in popular media, showcasing the allure and dangers of criminal life.
3. The portrayal of gangsters often emphasizes themes of loyalty and betrayal, highlighting complex relationships within crime families.
4. Gangster culture has influenced fashion trends, with elements like flashy clothing and distinctive accessories becoming iconic symbols.
5. Urban settings are crucial to gangster narratives, as they provide the backdrop for conflicts and character development within this subculture.

Review Questions

• How does gangster culture manifest in film and what themes are commonly explored within this context?
  • Gangster culture is prominently showcased in films that depict the lives of criminals and their interactions with society. Common themes include loyalty among gang members, the moral dilemmas faced by characters involved in crime, and the consequences of violence. Films often portray urban environments as both the setting for criminal activities and as influential elements that shape character motivations and storylines.
• Discuss the impact of gangster culture on fashion trends and popular music, providing examples from both areas.
  • Gangster culture has significantly influenced fashion trends by promoting a style characterized by bold clothing choices, luxury accessories, and distinctive hairstyles. For example, the oversized clothing popularized by hip hop artists reflects elements of gangster aesthetics. In music, rap songs frequently incorporate narratives from gangster culture, celebrating street life while addressing themes of survival and authenticity within urban environments.
• Evaluate how urban landscapes in film reinforce or challenge the values presented in gangster culture.
  • Urban landscapes in film play a critical role in either reinforcing or challenging the values of gangster culture. Cities are often depicted as gritty and dangerous settings where criminal enterprises thrive. This portrayal can reinforce the idea that such lifestyles are glamorous or inevitable. However, films may also challenge these values by highlighting the consequences of crime, showcasing how characters face downfall or loss due to their choices. By examining these narratives against urban backdrops, audiences can gain insights into the complexities of life within these environments.

Related terms

film noir:

A cinematic style characterized by its dark themes, moral ambiguity, and portrayal of crime and corruption, often featuring hard-boiled detectives and femme fatales.

mafia: A type of organized crime syndicate that typically operates through illicit activities such as extortion, drug trafficking, and racketeering, often associated with a code of silence.

hip hop culture: A cultural movement that originated in the 1970s in New York City, encompassing various artistic expressions like rap music, graffiti art, breakdancing, and fashion, often reflecting themes of urban life and social issues.