CULTURAL CONTEXT

• There was a large-scale expansion of the middle class in the 1950s.
• Consumerism became a key component of Western society
• Social mores about sex were particularly restrictive, characterised by strong taboos.
• There was conflict between traditionalist + progressive Americans due to the developments made in America during the war.
• Women's roles in society became more active as they were put into factories whilst men were at war. America saw the rise of active women.
• Idealised masculinity in the 50s

  Being the breadwinner

  Traditional gender roles

  Strength and toughness

  Adhere to social norms

  Macho image of masculinity.
• Idealised feminity in the 50s 


  Dependance on men

  Submissive behaviour

  Appearance = well, groomed, polished makeup, slender figure, hourglass silhouette.

  Modesty.
• Vertigo can be read as a study of men trying to re-assert their control over women in post war america.

  It can also be the same for capatalism / communism.
• America saw the rise of TV, with 77% of households having purchased their first television.
• A decline of movie revenue was seen, so new film techniques were develeoped that were ideally suited for big budget films.


  Cinemascope, VistaVision and 3D film.