Cultural Studies: A Historical Perspective

This chapter explores the development of cultural studies in post-World War II Britain, highlighting the decline of the British Empire and the rise of American cultural influence. It critiques traditional Marxist frameworks, advocating for a more nuanced approach that integrates literary theory and sociology to understand the complexities of culture. Key figures like Raymond Williams and E.P. Thompson are discussed, emphasizing the importance of working-class perspectives and the limitations of high culture narratives in cultural analysis.