Representation

National and Regional Identity

National Identity

• Representations of National Identity are reinforced and embedded in our culture

• Our own identity is often defined by our difference in relation to other nations

• Our perception of other nations is often stereotypical character traits

• Example: The French are good cook’s

Task

• Think of some nations and their stereotypical character traits?

How is national identity represented?

• Flags and strips. These become iconic and carry connotations of hope and pride.

• Supporters are represented as emotional and proud of their national identity.

• Trailers for sporting events often feature iconic landmarks and other elements of national identity and culture.

Regional Identity

• Like NATIONAL IDENITITY, REGIONAL IDENTITY tends to be defined by characteristics that are recognized outside of that region.

• The representation is built up through repetition and focuses on – ACCENT– DIALECT– CUSTOMS

Example

• ‘Essex girls’ are represented in news articles and television comedy programmes as having a lack of intelligence and low moral standards

What do you call an Essex girl with half a brain? Gifted. What do Essex girls use for protection during sex? Bus shelters.

Watch the following clips and take notes

What is the representation of in the clip?How is this constructed?How has the clip been mediated?How does this create a regional representation?

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1182373/Welcome-binge-Britain-Polish-photographer-documents-years-drunken-revelry-Cardiff.html

Local News

• Find a regional newspaper online

• What is the headline story?

• How is this REPRESENTING the area?

• What other REPRESENTATIONS are on the site?