1. Benjamin discusses the concept of 'aura' that is emitted by a piece of unique art. He argues,"that which withers in the age of mechanical reproduction is the aura of the work of art." As artwork becomes mass produced and used repetitively, often in mutated forms and in various contexts, does the original artwork, as Benjamin argues, really lose its 'aura'? If so, what kind of consequences could mass production and this loss of 'aura' have on the way society views and values art?
2. Benjamin compares film with live stage acting. Although his discussion is decidedly biased, both have pros and cons. In your opinion, which is holds more value in today's society: an imperfect live stage performance in which an actor can create a connection with an audience, or a mass produced film that can be watched over and over,in which an actors performance can be perfected, yet there is minimal connection between the actor and the audience?
Tayler,
ReplyDeleteInteresting questions although I think you could go farther in developing such responses to the readings. Also, we are not necessarily looking for "opinions" from people but reasoned arguments based in understanding the assigned writings. There is something else that Benjamin is attempting to describe through his focus on the stage and screen actor. Go further in considering the readings and developing your questions!
joseph