Class struggle

Definition

Class struggle refers to the conflict of interests between different social classes, particularly between the ruling class and the working class. This term emphasizes the economic and social inequalities that fuel tensions and conflicts within society, which is a central theme in many cinematic narratives. Through portraying the struggles of various classes, filmmakers highlight issues like poverty, oppression, and the quest for social justice, making it a crucial element in both Neorealist films and Brazilian Cinema Novo.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Neorealist films often depict the everyday lives of the lower classes, showcasing their struggles against poverty and societal injustices.
2. Brazilian Cinema Novo emerged as a response to social inequalities and portrayed the lives of marginalized groups, emphasizing themes of class struggle.
3. Both Neorealist films and Brazilian Cinema Novo used real locations and non-professional actors to authentically represent class struggles.
4. Filmmakers from both movements aimed to raise awareness about social issues and inspire change through their portrayals of class conflict.
5. Class struggle is depicted not just as a socio-economic issue but also intertwines with cultural identity and political movements in both cinematic traditions.

Review Questions

• How does class struggle manifest in Neorealist films, and what techniques do filmmakers use to portray this theme?
  • In Neorealist films, class struggle is often depicted through the harsh realities faced by the working class. Filmmakers use techniques such as on-location shooting, non-professional actors, and unembellished storytelling to create an authentic representation of their struggles. By focusing on everyday life, these films highlight the impact of poverty, unemployment, and societal indifference on individuals and families, making class struggle a palpable element in their narratives.
• Discuss how Brazilian Cinema Novo reflects themes of class struggle and how it differs from traditional cinematic portrayals.
  • Brazilian Cinema Novo reflects themes of class struggle by focusing on the lives of marginalized communities in Brazil, emphasizing issues such as land reform, urban poverty, and social inequality. Unlike traditional cinematic portrayals that often romanticize wealth or ignore the lower classes, Cinema Novo directors employed a more critical lens. They used experimental storytelling techniques, blending fiction with documentary styles to challenge audiences' perceptions of society while advocating for political change.
• Evaluate the significance of class struggle in shaping the narratives of both Neorealist films and Brazilian Cinema Novo, considering their socio-political contexts.
  • Class struggle plays a vital role in shaping the narratives of both Neorealist films and Brazilian Cinema Novo by serving as a lens through which social issues are examined. In post-World War II Italy, Neorealism emerged amidst economic hardship, illustrating the plight of ordinary people against oppressive systems. Similarly, Brazilian Cinema Novo arose during a period of political repression and economic disparity, critiquing societal structures while advocating for the underprivileged. Together, these movements reveal how class struggle can drive social change and reflect broader political contexts in film.

Related terms

Proletariat: The working class who do not own the means of production and must sell their labor to survive.

Bourgeoisie: The capitalist class who own the means of production and exploit the labor of the proletariat.

Socialism: A political and economic theory advocating for collective or governmental ownership and management of the means of production and distribution.