This thesis explores the themes of family, loss and belonging in Wes Anderson's Rushmore (1998), The Darjeeling Limited (2007), and Moonrise Kingdom (2012). The thesis connects objects and places...Show moreThis thesis explores the themes of family, loss and belonging in Wes Anderson's Rushmore (1998), The Darjeeling Limited (2007), and Moonrise Kingdom (2012). The thesis connects objects and places within these films to the abovementioned themes, and shows parallels between the use of objects in these films and the way in which objects are used in George Eliot's novel The Mill on the Floss (1860) - objects have a multiplicity of functions in both. Key to Anderson's films are relations between characters, and objects and places in the films signify these bonds. In the end, the characters in the films find a place to belong in the other.Show less
Objects can be such strange and wondrous curiosities. We see and use hundreds of objects every single day, and yet how much do we actually know about these objects that have such a strong influence...Show moreObjects can be such strange and wondrous curiosities. We see and use hundreds of objects every single day, and yet how much do we actually know about these objects that have such a strong influence and control over our daily lives? Where have these objects come from, how did they come to be what they are today? What and why, are the bonds and relationships we make with objects, without even consciously realizing how dependent we are on certain items? This thesis takes an inspiring journey through the realm of objects, dissecting the various approaches and theories that have been developed and discussed through the years; on how to uncover the social lives of objects and how they are intricately linked to the social lives of people and can act as foils for self-definition (Hoskins, 1999: 7). Not only will this thesis be discussing the theories behind objects but also objects themselves and how there are in fact several different categories and classification of objects and how an objects meaning and function can fluctuate via shifts in context. To demonstrate an objects ability to change appearance and function this thesis will also encompass a case study; which will document the changing face of the Parthenon revealing its rich and diverse history since its creation in 5th century Athens. This case study also serves as an example of how one can construct a social biography for an object following the writings of Kopytoff (1986). It is also the point of this thesis, in relation to the Parthenon and other Acropolis monuments to discuss, a topic that is close to the heart of every object and material culture, the notion of heritage and what and can be deemed world heritage. With all being said and done this thesis is a true dedication to the social and cultural lives of objects; the wandering witnesses through time and space.Show less
