Postmodernism Theory

What is Postmodernism?

Postmodernism is an undefined theory in which it is suggested that the modern society has disregarded the stereotypes and social constructs formed in previous centuries. It is thought that postmodernism came about in the 20th century however there are still debates whether or not we actually do live in a post modern society or whether it is just an idea.




Key Elements of postmodernism in media:

• HYBRIDITY- the mixing/sampling of different images/influences, from both high art and popular culture. music videos are good examples of this.
• INTERTEXTUAL REFERENCES- the ways that texts interact with or re-use elements of other texts. Many videos will take influence from films or TV programmes. They may be a parody or a pastiche of the content.
• THE EROSION OF TIME- the way that time is blurred in films and media content. E.g 1 hours is shown in minutes due to jump cuts and the assumption that the audience is aware of time periods.
• DISJOINTED NARRATIVE STRUCTURES- often music videos will have a narrative but the scenes will be split into pieces and the story is not chronological.
• SIMILATION- the idea that a text is constructed and not of 'truth'. The imagination is able to create the unrealistic world.
• PASTICHE- a text uses elements of another text, in a flattering, non-mocking way.
• PARODY- a text references another text, often in a mocking way usually for comedic affect.
• BRICOLAGE-combination of different conventions of media. Aspects of a style of media are given different context in another style of media e.g punk boots worn with summer floral dress becomes a girly, grunge fashion trend.
• METANARRATIVES- a larger story looks beyond the plot or events. Often used to convey an underlying message about society

Iggy Azelea and Charlie XCX's song 'FANCY' is a great example of the post modern theory: