Scripting Identity

This work illuminates how The Godfather and The Sopranos affect not only an individual's identity formation, but that of an ethnic culture as well. Important general dynamics of identity formation are revealed while beautifully demonstrating the power of cinematic images. Postmodern depictions are highlighted as a powerful persuasion on one's sense of self, especially when identity is viewed as performance. The author clarifies the difference between Postmodernism and myth. Postmodern characterizations are viewed as dealing specifically with behavior, similar to someone who uses masks to adapt to different situations. Myth and mythological motifs are, on the other hand, explained as personal attributes stemming from childhood, and are often reflected in beliefs rather than behavior. The power and influence of the postmodern narrative and/or identity is defined as arising from the mythic qualities portrayed. This work will benefit professionals, educators, or anyone interested in the fields of Italian or Italian-American Studies, Film Studies, Identity Formation, Postmodernism, Literature and Poetry.

Autorentext

Joy L. Salvetti, Ph.D.: Studied Italian at Vermont College, Rutgers University, as well as the University of Florence. She was the 2003 National Italian-American Foundation Fellow for outstanding academic and professional accomplishments in the field of Italian. Currently, she is faculty at the California State University, Sacramento.