An Unexpected History Of Celebrity From Bronze Age To Silver Screen

Celebrity is a relatively modern concept, but the desire for fame and recognition is as old as humanity itself. In this fascinating and wide-ranging book, historian Thomas Doherty explores the unexpected history of celebrity, from its origins in the Bronze Age to its modern manifestations on the silver screen and beyond.

Dead Famous: An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen

by Greg Jenner

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9662 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	367 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

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Doherty argues that celebrity is not simply a product of mass media, but rather a fundamental part of human nature. He traces the evolution of celebrity from the earliest days of recorded history, when kings and queens were revered as gods, to the rise of modern celebrity culture in the 20th century.

Along the way, Doherty explores the many different forms that celebrity has taken over the centuries. He looks at the role of religion, politics, and the media in creating and shaping celebrities. He also examines the impact of celebrity on society, both positive and negative.

Doherty's book is a rich and thought-provoking exploration of one of the most enduring and fascinating aspects of human culture. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of celebrity, the nature of fame, or the relationship between media and society.

The Bronze Age

The earliest evidence of celebrity dates back to the Bronze Age, when kings and queens were often revered as gods. These early celebrities were typically seen as intermediaries between the gods and mortals, and they played a vital role in the religious and political life of their communities.

One of the most famous Bronze Age celebrities was the Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun. Tutankhamun died young, but his tomb was discovered intact in the early 20th century, revealing a wealth of treasures and artifacts that have made him one of the most well-known historical figures in the world.

The Classical World

In the classical world, celebrity was closely associated with military and political success. Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Cleopatra were all celebrated as heroes and conquerors. These celebrities were often depicted in art and literature, and their stories were used to inspire future generations.

One of the most famous classical celebrities was the Greek philosopher Socrates. Socrates was known for his wisdom and his unconventional teachings, and he was eventually executed by the Athenian government. However, Socrates' death only served to increase his fame, and he remains one of the most influential philosophers in history.

The Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, celebrity was primarily associated with the Church. Saints and popes were the most famous people in society, and their images were often used to decorate churches and other public spaces.

One of the most famous medieval celebrities was the Franciscan friar Saint Francis of Assisi. Francis was known for his love of nature and his compassion for the poor. He founded the Franciscan Free Download, which became one of the most popular religious Free Downloads in the world.

The Renaissance

The Renaissance saw a new flowering of celebrity culture. Artists, writers, and musicians became famous for their work, and their names were often known throughout Europe.

One of the most famous Renaissance celebrities was the Italian painter Leonardo da Vinci. Leonardo was a master of painting, sculpture, and architecture, and his work has had a profound influence on Western art.

The Enlightenment

The Enlightenment saw the rise of a new type of celebrity: the intellectual. Philosophers, scientists, and writers became famous for their ideas, and their work helped to shape the modern world.

One of the most famous Enlightenment celebrities was the French philosopher Voltaire. Voltaire was known for his wit and his sharp criticism of the established Free Download. He was a prolific writer, and his work has had a major impact on Western thought.

The 19th Century

The 19th century saw the rise of mass media, and with it, the birth of modern celebrity culture. The first celebrities were actors, singers, and dancers, but soon, celebrities began to emerge from all walks of life.

One of the most famous 19th century celebrities was the American actress Sarah Bernhardt. Bernhardt was known for her dramatic performances and her flamboyant lifestyle. She was one of the first celebrities to achieve worldwide fame, and she helped to pave the way for the modern celebrity culture.

The 20th Century

The 20th century saw the rise of the silver screen, and with it, the birth of the modern movie star. Movie stars became the most famous people in the world, and their lives were often the subject of intense media scrutiny.

One of the most famous 20th century movie stars was the American actor Marilyn Monroe. Monroe was known for her beauty and her sex appeal. She was one of the most photographed women in the world, and she remains one of the most iconic celebrities of all time.

The 21st Century

The 21st century has seen the rise of social media, and with it, the birth of a new type of celebrity: the social media influencer. Social media influencers are people who have built a large following on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. They often use their platforms to promote products or services, and they can earn a significant amount of money from their endorsements.

One of the most famous 21st century social media influencers is the American entrepreneur Kylie Jenner. Jenner is the founder of the cosmetics company Kylie Cosmetics. She has over 300 million followers on Instagram, and she has been credited with helping to popularize the use of lip fillers and other cosmetic procedures.

The Future Of Celebrity

It is difficult to say what the future of celebrity holds. However, it is clear that celebrity culture is here to stay. Celebrities will continue to play a major role in our society, and they will continue to shape our culture and our values.

The future of celebrity is likely to be shaped by technology. Social media will continue to play a major role in the creation and dissemination of celebrity, and new technologies, such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence, are likely to have a significant impact on the way that we interact with celebrities.

It is impossible to know exactly what the future of celebrity holds. However, one thing is for sure: celebrity is here to stay. Celebrities will continue to play a major role in our society, and they will continue to shape our culture and our values.

Celebrity is a complex and fascinating phenomenon. It is a product of our human nature, and it has been with us for thousands of years. Celebrity has evolved over time, but it has always been a reflection of our values and our aspirations.

In this book, Thomas Doherty has provided us with a rich and thought-provoking exploration of the history of celebrity. He has shown us that celebrity is not simply a product of mass media, but rather a fundamental part of human nature. Celebrity is here to stay, and it will continue to play a major role in our society for years to come.

Dead Famous: An Unexpected History of Celebrity from Bronze Age to Silver Screen

by Greg Jenner

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9662 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	367 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE