Dear Colleagues,



I hardly ever ever reply to the conversation on this list, but I really

want to in this case.   When I first saw the Onion parody (on another list,

incidentally), I thought it was great.  In fact, I copied it to include in

my reading packet for my "Theory and Literature" class which introduces all

of the film and video critical methods of textual and cultural analysis to

new grad students.



Seriously, we have to be able to laugh at our own work.  In fact, like most

really good parodies, this one had such a grain of truth that it was

exceptionally insightful into how any part of our culture can be

analyzed.  One of the first tasks I give to my new graduate media students

is the semiotic (or structural) analysis of some cultural space such as the

UT campus, a shopping mall, a local grocery store (Central Market--which

attracts tourists), or a movie theater.   I plan to use the Onion parody to

both laugh and, then, ask about how we DO interpret cultural objects--ad

hoc-ly or with a thought-out critical method.



Also remember that only some senior scholars claim we should be in a

post-theory era.  And some scholars, such as me, would argue that good

historians and cultural studies scholarship can only succeed with a firm

understanding of theory (and vice versa).  And would consider herself a

theoretician (but able to laugh at herself from time to time).



Finally, thank you, Jeremy, for reminding me of how fun that article

was.  I think it is fully appropriate to distribute these sorts of items

especially since they help us reflect on our profession.   I regret that

you, Louis, might have felt "mocked," but I think lots of others of us who

do this sort of theory don't read this parody as vicious but

playful.  That's not to say that it isn't hard for you where you are

teaching.  Indeed, I have it easy at UT where theory is quite accepted and

expected.    So I am sorry Louis that this reminds you of some obviously

painful experiences but I'm not sure your interpretation is that of others

(likely in a better situation to enjoy the piece).  I hope that you can

find ways to include the theory you love in other classes that may seem

less amenable to its inclusion.  And, having been in the field for about 25

years, I can assure you that cycles of privileges exist.



good luck, Janet



----

To sign off Screen-L, e-mail [log in to unmask] and put SIGNOFF Screen-L

in the message.  Problems?  Contact [log in to unmask]