The decline of the American dream in A serious man (2009). Trauma and uncertainty in western societies from the 1960s
Abstract
1960s represent a defining moment for today's societies, based on a growing socioeconomic system of production and consumption. However, the less friendly side of the welfare state also emerges at that time. The objective of this work is to analyze the traumas and doubts caused by the decline of the American dream, represented in A serious man (2009), by the Coen brothers. From a narrative analysis, it is perceived how insecurity and negative emotions flood the psyche of misfits, such as the film's protagonist, Larry Gopnik. From a traditional Jewish perspective, the story shows the difficulties of daily life to accept the designs of a serious man.
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