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The Art of Icons, 2003.
A look at the history, function, making, and meaning of orthodox icons.
2,984 words (approx. 11.9 pages), 9 sources, MLA, AU$ 128.95
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Abstract
This paper examines how orthodox iconography can be traced back to Christ himself and attempts to unravel the beautiful spiritual and historical significance of the art. It looks at how the art of icons is a sacred art in the true sense of the word and how icons are a visual theology and window into the spiritual realm, as well as a pictorial expression of the truth and mercy of God. This paper presents four examples of the most beloved and venerated icons orthodoxy has to offer and the stories behind them.
Outline
The Function of Icons
The History of Icons
The Making of Icons
Famous Icons With a Brief Synopsis
Christ Savior "Not Made By Hands"
Theotokos of Vladimir
Holy Trinity
St. George
From the Paper
"The story of the first icon begins on the banks of the Euphrates in the time of Christ. A prince by the name of Avgar lived in the city of Edessa. Avgar, who was stricken with leprosy, heard of Jesus and his miracles. The prince sent a court artist named Ananias to Judea with a letter to Christ, asking him to come to Edessa and heal him of leprosy. In the event that Jesus was not able to come, the prince commanded Ananias to paint Christ's likeness and bring that back. Try as he might the artist found that trying to paint the visage of Christ was impossible. Jesus, knowing everything and knowing what the prince wanted, pressed a napkin to his face. When he removed the napkin from his face it showed the likeness of Christ having long brownish hair with red highlights, a long thin nose and brown eyes."
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Icons, 2004.
This paper discusses the significance of the art form called icons in Eastern Christianity.
1,120 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 56.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that, ever since the 8th century, icons, which are religious paintings on wooden panels used in Greek Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, and Russian Orthodox churches and homes, play an important devotional role in these settings. The author points out that the Orthodox Church is considered an iconic pattern of the kingdom of God, and the icons are meant to remind worshippers of the work God?s saints have accomplished. The paper relates that, in the art world, these icons are considered an art form worthy of exhibitions; in the Orthodox Church, they are not only considered teaching tools for the illiterate, but also a window to heaven for all worshippers.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Problems with Icons
Contribution of Icons to Religion
Relevance of Icons for the Contemporary World
From the Paper
"It is unlikely most people would venerate icons these days. It is unlikely modern people venerate much of anything. But it is possible to see the impact they have on the modern world when one considers that they are often seen to weep, or to produce drops of blood, as noted above. Whether the tears or blood are real is almost immaterial, which seems to be what the Greek Orthodox bishop was saying. It seems that he might have been saying that what was important abut the incident was that a large group of people believed in the action, and by extension, believed in the sanctity of the icon. They believed that the icon was a true representation of at least the characteristics of the saint depicted. They did not believe, then, that it was the icon itself doing the work, but rather the ?ascended spirit? of the person depicted."
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Pez as a Cultural Icon, 2002.
Examines the history of the Pez candy dispenser and mint and its role in popular culture as an icon.
1,650 words (approx. 6.6 pages), 5 sources, AU$ 90.95
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Abstract
For better or for worse, we live in a branded world. We are at a time in history when brands go beyond being business platforms to becoming symbols of our times. Brands like McDonald's, Sony and Budweiser often reflect the changing values of our society. Brands are more than just advertising, they are part of our culture. Andy Warhol and Campbell's? Soup. Norman Rockwell and Coca-Cola? (Lomsky-Feder & Rapoport, 32). One of the most enduring popular culture symbols and common household item is the PEZ dispenser. Invented in 1927, this unique form of candy is associated with popular icons of nearly every generation, multiple companies world wide and is the subject of thousands of web-pages devoted to the product, its nostalgic aspect, and the collecting of dispensers. PEZ dispensers and the consistent recipe of the candy itself, once designed simply as a smoker's breath mint, are now one of the most identifiable icons world-wide. It is the purpose of this paper to explore the history and importance in pop-culture of PEZ.
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Jim Morrison: American Icon, 2004.
An analysis of Jim Morrison, a true American icon.
748 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 4 sources, MLA, AU$ 38.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that American icons are a symbol of things that the society holds in high value and that are desired by the masses. The paper discusses Jim Morrison, the lead singer of the innovative rock group "The Doors", who, alongside the cultural icons of decades past, holds his ground firmly and with a true rock-n-roll flair. The paper contends that Morrison has many traits that can be identified as truly iconographic and he is the embodiment of American myths and values, both in his life and in his death.
From the Paper
"Many people mistakenly believe that mythology is dead and an aspect of ancient culture that no longer exists in our society. However, mythology of our culture is being written (and rewritten) every day, the heroes and heroines of today's mythology may also be known as American Icons. An American icon is defined as someone who has transcended popular or celebrity status to become a true mythological figure with "cultural significance that goes beyond any particular qualities he... might have." (Maasik & Solomon) American icons are a symbol of things that our society holds in high value, and that are desired by the masses. An American icon is a symbol of the American Dream itself in some way, and by giving esteem and power to these icons, Americans reinforce the belief that important values and goals are both active and attainable, and everything is somehow OK."
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George W. Bush: A Cultural Icon, 2008.
A strong argument that claims George W. Bush is a cultural icon who has abused his power.
2,111 words (approx. 8.4 pages), 7 sources, MLA, AU$ 96.95
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Abstract
The paper asserts that George W. Bush is a cultural icon who embodies the positive and negative aspects of American culture. The paper explains why political strategist Karl Rove crafted a public image of Bush as an icon and as a compassionate conservative, pro-life Christian who supports family values, is pro-military and is a tax cutter. The paper contends that this image has been shattered because of his criminal incompetence, reliance upon systematic deceit and abuses of power unparalleled in American political history. The paper includes source material.
From the Paper
"Initially, this strategy of presenting Bush to the American public as an icon was very successful, for conservative voters have always longed for an iconic leader who symbolizes positive American traits and characteristics. President Ronald Reagan fulfilled that longing a generation ago and has been deified ever since by conservatives as the ideal American president. For the same reason, George W. Bush was groomed and marketed to the public during his two terms as governor of Texas as the conservative heir of Ronald Reagan, and that effort continued throughout the early years of Bush's presidency."
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Theology of Icons: The Defense of John of Damascus, 2001.
This essay outlines John of Damascus' defense on why icons are important in worship and how they bring us closer to the Divine.
4,170 words (approx. 16.7 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 162.95
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Abstract
This paper looks at the Iconoclastic Controversy. The author talks about John of Damascus' defense of icons at a time when there was debate about whether icons should be used in worship or if they were idolatrous. The essay lists several of John's points and looks at both the positive and negative aspects of each point.
From the Paper
"It seems that art is such a natural part of everyday life. It would be difficult to picture a world where art was not involved. From the flower pots outside on the window sill to the mounted picture in the living room, art pervades every aspect of our lives. It is difficult to imagine that there was a controversy over whether such type pf media should be allowed in a Church setting. The word icon usually describes ?those religious pictures-mainly portable wood panel paintings-which have a prominent place in the life and worship of the Eastern Orthodox Churches? (Baggley, 1). The Iconoclasm controversy dealt with the debate over whether painted images of the Divine Christ were valid or idolatrous. Popular culture felt that the icon was a necessary part of their worship because it gave them a sense of understanding. It gave the worshipper a visual image of what he/she was praying to and so, made the person feel that his/her prayers were not futile and wasted. However, it was these exact beliefs that sparked the controversy, but also led to the writings in defence of the images. John of Damascus was one of the greatest Christian defenders of the iconodule position (Sch?nobon, 192)."
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Homer Simpson: American Icon, 2006.
This paper focuses on the pop cultural icon Homer J. Simpson, the patriarch of creator Matt Groenig's animated Simpson family.
1,386 words (approx. 5.5 pages), 3 sources, MLA, AU$ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the phenomenon that is "The Simpsons" which is currently the longest-running animated television series. This paper explores the inspiration behind Groenig's amusing yet dysfunctional family which consists of Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa and Maggie. The writer of this paper contends and explains how and why Homer Simpson should be considered an American icon. This paper proves that Homer Simpson represents America's moral majority. This paper delves into how Groenig's concept of the "The Simpsons" symbolizes cultural America in the 1990s which explains the show's long-running success. This paper analyzes the character of Homer Simpson who according to the writer represents the typical all-American dad and husband.
From the Paper
"This basic argument of this report is that Homer Simpson represents the typical American father and husband as anti-hero. He makes a lot of mistakes as a character and is no ways perfect, in fact being very much the opposite of perfect in an exaggerated way. He gains the status of icon not through being heroic, but by being fallible and vulnerable to external problems. The rise of the anti-hero in American society was a twentieth century phenomenon. When people watched television in the fifties there was an Ozzie and Harriet ideal that wasn't really reflected in society, and this and other circumstances led to the formation of a new culture in the mid twentieth century which particularly valued the fallible or human hero, or anti-hero, as a sort of shock to the system."
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Einstein as an Icon, 2008.
This paper discusses why Einstein became a cultural icon in the 20th century.
3,500 words (approx. 14.0 pages), 9 sources, MLA, AU$ 143.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that in the late 17th Century, Sir Isaac Newton, one of the greatest geniuses of all time, ushered in the age of enlightenment with his scientific work and methods. As the years went on after that, humanity's hopes were dashed, as it became apparent that human intellect could not compensate for, or prevent, man's inhumanity to man. By the early 20th century, people were witnessing the first great world war, and many must have despaired. However, the writer points out that Albert Einstein, a man whose stature rivaled that of Newton, bought renewed hope in that troubled century. Indeed, Einstein personified the human intelligence and achievement that transformed the earth in the 20th century. In this century, humans went from foot or horse-drawn transportation to cars, trains, airplanes and space flight. People became supermen and superwomen, thanks to the ability of the human brain to make massive technological advances. The writer maintains that of all people in that century - and the competition was certainly strong - Einstein most of all personified human genius.
From the Paper
"Einstein was thus perfectly placed to become the icon of human achievement in the 20th century. On a more negative note, this was also the century when the atomic bomb was invented and deployed - and this meant that humanity discovered it not only had the capacity to perfect the planet, but it also had the capacity to destroy the planet. The atomic bomb was made possible by the Einstein scientific discoveries in the fields of what has come to be known as Newtonian physics. Yet despite Einstein's key role in developing this horrific weapon, and the fact that he has been dead for more than 50 years, he is still remembered by many with reverence and love as a cultural icon, such that his face is almost as familiar as Ronald McDonald's. How can we account for this?"
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Icon Norman Bethune, 2005.
A discuss of Norman Bethune who was a Chinese Revolutionary icon.
2,250 words (approx. 9.0 pages), 7 sources, AU$ 129.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how a Canadian doctor Norman Bethune became a Chinese Communist revolutionary hero. The writer shows that as a cadre, he worked side by side with the revolutionary soldiers and he imparted his medical knowledge to the peasants. The writer points out that Mao cited Bethune as a true spirit of the People's Revolutionary Struggle. Further the writer notes that Bethune became known throughout China as a martyr to the revolution and a war hero.
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Gertrude and Religious Iconization of English Queens, 1998.
A discussion of religious iconography and the virgin-whore dichotomy in pre and post Elizabethan England using Elizabeth I. and Hamlet's Gertrude as examples of the virgin and whore characterization.
2,285 words (approx. 9.1 pages), 5 sources, AU$ 102.95
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Abstract
A discussion of religious iconography as it relates to the Catholic Queens of England, Elizabeth I. and Hamlet?s Gertrude. This paper contains a discussion of the virgin-whore dichotomy as it relates to the depictions of the Catholic Queens of England and Elizabeth I. in comparison to Gertrude. It also deals with an interesting change in religious iconization as England made its movement in support of the Protestant faith. The argument defines and discusses three areas in which queens are compared to religious icons and how their success and failure in these areas establishes their places in the virgin-whore dichotomy.
From the Paper
"To give the queen the desired position in the dichotomy as the virgin, queens were often equated with religious icons, making their legacies almost saintly. These images of holiness defined both the queen?s positions in the monarchy and the standards to which the future queens were held. After the fall of Catholicism in England, the iconizsation of the queen changed. Elizabeth in particular wasn?t associated by allegory alone to the Virgin Mary, but rather became the Virgin Mother of England in body as well as by allegory. This strengthened both her political position and her position in the virgin-whore dichotomy of the time. By comparing Queen Elizabeth, who was seen as a saintly, virginal figure, to Shakespeare?s character Gertrude, who was seen as lusty and betraying, the major virgin-whore dichotomy of the Elizabethan and post-Elizabethan age can be exemplified."
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American Icons, 2004.
A look at how Hollywood helps transmit American cultural values throughout the world.
1,125 words (approx. 4.5 pages), 5 sources, APA, AU$ 57.95
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Abstract
This paper explains how American cultural values are transmitted to the rest of the world through Hollywood cinema icons like John Wayne, Ronald Reagan, Sylvester Stallone and Clint Eastwood.
From the Paper
"Icons are symbols or representations of values that transmit culture. Icons can be people, places or things, such as movie stars John Wayne and Sylvester Stallone to Disneyland, McDonald's and the Statue of Liberty. As Kroes argues, from the high rhetoric of its political ideals to the golden glow of McDonald's arches, from Bruce Springsteen to the Marlboro Man, American culture washes across the globe. Hollywood cinema is responsible for the creation and transmission of national icons that have transmitted American culture i.e., values around the..."
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Icons of Authority and Resistance: An Ideological and Semiotic, 2002.
A look at the influence of superhero comics on today's society.
2,650 words (approx. 10.6 pages), 18 sources, AU$ 142.95
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Abstract
The paper will argue the thesis that superhero comics have performed an ideologically dichotomous role in modern popular culture: at once they are both key structural supports of the ideological architecture of American imperialism while, at the same time, often functioning as subversive figures of resistance to the primary authority structures of that same empire. While an ideological analysis allows us to explore the functions of comic book superheroes in the power dynamics of mass culture, a semiotic analysis complements this approach by allowing us to understand how their ideological function has been reinforced by their "iconic" status within modern culture.
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David Mamet: The Mystery of an Icon, 1999.
An exploration of the paradox of David Mamet's creative genius and personal anguish.
1,410 words (approx. 5.6 pages), 5 sources, AU$ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper deals with David Mamet as an icon of American literature. Mamet?s own life, interviews, and especially his play "The Cryptogram", are used to illustrate the paradoxical nature of his work: creative genius on one side, personal anguish on the other. How Mamet?s own past expresses itself in his work is a major concern.
From the Paper
"A paranoid recluse, yet a brilliant social critic, David Mamet has become an icon of modern American literature. He has perplexed readers and audiences worldwide with his quintessential blend of vulgarity, conflict, and keen intellectualism. But if his writing presents a paradox, it is only because his thoughts and the life that has formed them are a paradox. Refusing to grant reporters and interviewers direct access to the details of his abusive and dysfunctional childhood home, elucidating only on the rarest of occasions (Interview 52), his writing is a fountain of conscious and unconscious expression, golden to the psychoanalyst, and at the very least fascinating to the literary eye. Mamet?s many ?disguises,? which changed frequently throughout the 1970s and 1980s to reflect the attitudes in his writing (Lahr 70), are just one example of his desire to cloak his inner self from the outside world. The language, themes, and characters in his interviews, autobiographical pieces, and his play, The Cryptogram, make it clear that to uncover the mystery of David Mamet is to make it infinitely more complex. David Mamet is an essential paradox of the conflict of his past and the clarity of his creative vision."
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Jack Kerouac: An American Icon, 2006.
An analysis of the life, work and legacy of the American novelist Jack Kerouac.
1,050 words (approx. 4.2 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 53.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the life and writing of Jack Kerouac, the 1950s American author whose novel "On the Road" is considered a classic. The paper traces Kerouac's childhood in Massachusetts, including watershed events such as the death of his older brother. Then the paper analyzes the influence of the Beat Generation and other social phenomena on Kerouac's writing. The paper concludes with Kerouac's tragic demise from alcohol.
From the Paper
"The Beat Generation. The Fabulous Fifties. Elvis. Rock and Roll. The Communist Menace. And then there was author Jack Kerouac. He defined a restless, dynamic and evolving generation of angst-ridden adventurers, who were desperately searching for the true meaning of life in the embodiment of this complex muse. Kerouac exuded a James Dean-like persona - in the way he wrote about, and ultimately lived, his life. Agnes Machate writes of Kerouac and his fellow writers of the Beat Generation: "They did not seem to pay too much attention to what was socially practical; in this regard they were rebels. If being non-conformist met their need for freedom and let them express themselves the way the wanted, and allowed them to be what they wanted to be, they did not have to obey any rules. They wouldn't fit in a group, but instead, stand out, so they wouldn't conform just to avoid an unpleasant treatment from society." ("The Generation of Extremes" 1)."
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Theology of Icons, 2001.
Examination of the debate of the Iconoclastic Controversy in the Eastern Orthodox Churches.
3,250 words (approx. 13.0 pages), 10 sources, MLA, AU$ 136.95
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Abstract
This essay discusses the iconoclastic Controversy in the Eastern Orthodox Church and its defense by John of Damascus. It follows John?s separations of the topic and explores what each argument entailed and the resistance which it faced. It outlines both the strong and weak points of the argument and how each issue was solved.
From the Paper
"It seems that art is such a natural part of everyday life. It would be difficult to picture a world where art was not involved. From the flower pots outside on the window sill to the mounted picture in the living room, art pervades every aspect of our lives. It is difficult to imagine that there was a controversy over whether such type pf media should be allowed in a Church setting. The word icon usually describes “those religious pictures-mainly portable wood panel paintings-which have a prominent place in the life and worship of the Eastern Orthodox Churches” (Baggley, 1). The Iconoclasm controversy dealt with the debate over whether painted images of the Divine Christ were valid or idolatrous. Popular culture felt that the icon was a necessary part of their worship because it gave them a sense of understanding. It gave the worshipper a visual image of what he/she was praying to and so, made the person feel that his/her prayers were not futile and wasted. However, it was these exact beliefs that sparked the controversy, but also led to the writings in defence of the images. John of Damascus was one of the greatest Christian defenders of the iconodule position (Schצnobon, 192)."
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Elvis Presley: A Cultural Icon, 2002.
This paper discusses the influence Elvis Presley had on American culture.
1,210 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 5 sources, MLA, AU$ 60.95
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Abstract
An examination of the effect of Elvis Presley's career and life had on American society and culture. It discusses how his music transformed rock n' roll not only in how it sounded but also in his appearance and sexuality. It further looks at his movie career and how he influenced musicians and entertainers including Madonna.
From the Paper
"Elvis Presley openly acknowledged that black musicians and their unique blend of soul and blues were a major influence in his career. He grew up in a poor household in the rural South. He understood the problems faced by the poor in the South, many of whom were Black. He listened to their music, visited their clubs and bars, and brought their musical form to the attention of the world when he blended it with his country blues."
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