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432. Titanic: The Survivors (Part 6)

The Rest Is History

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Reinterpreting Metaphors: Titanic and Lord of the Rings

The discussion revolves around the different interpretations and metaphors associated with popular cultural elements like Titanic and Lord of the Rings. The analysis delves into how Titanic is viewed from various perspectives - as a symbol of romanticism for teenage girls, a phallic symbol, or a metaphor for historical events like Europe before the First World War or the British Empire. It is highlighted that the absence of lifeboats but presence of luxury amenities on the Titanic can be seen as a critique of industrial capitalism. The enduring relevance of these interpretations is attributed to Titanic's proximity to the First World War. Lord of the Rings, on the other hand, is portrayed as retaining its status because it caters more to boys than girls, showcasing the role gender perceptions play in cultural appreciation.

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