Origin Story
Night of the Living Allegory: The Politics of Zombies
Nov 20, 2023
Ian Dunt and Dorian Lynskey discuss the political nature of zombies, exploring their symbolism in relation to war, terrorism, capitalism, and disease. They trace the origins of the zombie term to Voodoo and its connection to Caribbean and Southern US folklore. The podcast also explores the evolution of zombie movies, George Romero's influence, and the themes they portray. The hosts delve into the significance of zombies in popular culture, examining their metaphorical representation of societal fears and frustrations. They conclude by discussing the changing interpretations of zombies throughout history.
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Quick takeaways
- Zombies have evolved into powerful political metaphors that explore various social, cultural, and economic issues.
- The concept of zombie infections has become integral to the modern portrayal of zombies, reflecting concerns about pandemic outbreaks and the fragility of societal structures.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Zombies as Political Metaphors
Zombies have evolved into powerful political metaphors that explore various social, cultural, and economic issues. From their origins in Haitian folklore to their portrayal in movies like White Zombie and I Walked with a Zombie, zombies have represented different fears and anxieties throughout history. In modern times, they have been associated with themes such as consumerism, mass conformity, and the dehumanizing effects of capitalism. The metaphorical potential of zombies has been embraced globally, with zombie movies, TV shows, and video games becoming a cultural phenomenon. As the zombie genre continues to evolve, it reflects and comments on a wide range of political and societal concerns.
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