The Values Represented In The Shows Falling Skies And The Walking Dead

These readings are the basis for the Research Paper Options and are from our textbook Reading Pop Culture by Jeff Ousborne (information for citing essays from this book is located on the home page). Read the following essays and answer all the accompanying questions.

Paul A. Cantor’s “The Apocalyptic Strain in Popular Culture: The American Nightmare Becomes the American Dream” (279). Download Paul A. Cantor’s “The Apocalyptic Strain in Popular Culture: The American Nightmare Becomes the American Dream” (279).

1. After reading Cantor’s essay, how do you explain his title? How, specifically, does Cantor define the American Dream versus the American Nightmare?

2. According to Cantor, what values are represented in the shows Falling Skies and The Walking Dead, and what do these shows reflect/say about American culture?

Jake Flanagin’s “Stay Unlikable–for the Good of TV” (315) Download Jake Flanagin’s “Stay Unlikable–for the Good of TV” (315)

Why does Flanagan think it important that Mindy Kaling’s character in The Mindy Project (and characters like her on television in general) not become more likable?
Do you agree with his argument about female characters on television? Can you give some other examples to support or refute (argue against) his argument?
David Charpentier’s “Story or Spectacle? Why Television Is Better Than the Movies” (308) Download David Charpentier’s “Story or Spectacle? Why Television Is Better Than the Movies” (308)

In your own words explain why Charpentier thinks we are drawn to “ambiguous” characters (par. 7)?
Why does Charpentier say Television shows are superior to films? Do you agree with his argument? Why or why not?
Gerard Jones’ “Violent Media is Good for Kids” (442). Download Gerard Jones’ “Violent Media is Good for Kids” (442).

How specifically, did Jones help his son overcome his fears? How does this story relate to his overall argument?
Reread the last two paragraphs. How do you respond to his argument?