"20th Century Zeitgeist: From Modernity to Dictatorship"

Zeitgeist of the 20th Century: The Era of Revolution and Dictatorship

Thinking Activity

This blog is crafted as part of a thinking activity assigned by Dr. Dilip Barad, Department of English, MKBU. The purpose is to delve into the Zeitgeist of the 20th century, exploring its socio-economic-political conditions and their reflections in two iconic films by Charlie Chaplin: Modern Times and The Great Dictator.

20th Century: A Transformation in Socio-Economic and Political Ideals

The 20th century emerged as an era of profound change. It marked the end of Queen Victoria’s reign (1837-1901) and transitioned into a modern world shaped by Queen Elizabeth II’s reign (1952-2022). Between 1902 and 1951, global events like the two World Wars transformed human consciousness. While the initial war stirred a wave of patriotic fervor, the catastrophic aftermath muted such euphoria by the time of the second war.

The early 20th century witnessed rapid advancements in science and technology. Breakthroughs like the internal combustion engine revolutionized transport and warfare, leading to inventions such as airplanes, motorcycles, and cars. However, these advancements were dual-edged, with nuclear power exemplifying both progress and destruction. The invention of nuclear weapons introduced a global threat, with nations accumulating arms under the guise of protection, setting the stage for catastrophic consequences.

Socio-Political Dynamics: A Clash of Ideologies

Education and youth were pivotal in shaping the century. Movements like the Hitler Youth harnessed young minds for political agendas, often leading to chaos and mob rule. In contrast, British youth were encouraged to focus on academics rather than agitation. Unfortunately, the untamed political demonstrations of students often led to disorder rather than reform.

Victorian values, once deemed ideal, were now criticized as hypocritical and outdated. Artistic and aesthetic standards shifted dramatically, reflecting the changing societal values. Writers like H.G. Wells and G.B. Shaw exemplified the era’s interrogative spirit. Wells’ idea of the home as a "campsite" and Shaw’s call to "Question! Examine! Test!" encapsulated the generation's shift from blind acceptance to critical thinking.

The revolt against Victorian stability created a spiritual void. The rejection of old values, combined with existentialist philosophy post-World Wars, led to a fragmented society. The 20th century saw the rise of two influential groups:

1. Bloomsbury Group: Comprised of elite intellectuals, this group challenged Victorian traditions, exploring themes of modernity versus tradition and advocating "art for art’s sake."

2. Fabian Society: Focused on the common man, this group promoted social awareness and industrial reform. They envisioned a welfare state prioritizing underprivileged communities' well-being.

This was also the era of democracy, with the common man at the center. However, dictatorial tendencies persisted, highlighting a stark contrast between democratic ideals and authoritarian realities.

Industrialization and Its Impact

The growth of industrialization brought concerns about the erosion of craftsmanship. Assembly-line production, while efficient, dehumanized labor, stripping individuals of pride in their creations. Capitalism thrived, but the divide between the rich and the poor widened. Basic necessities like food, shelter, and clothing became scarce for many, while materialistic excess defined the wealthy.

Frame Study: Modern Times and The Great Dictator

A frame refers to a single still image within a sequence that forms a moving picture. Examining frames allows us to analyze the visual and thematic elements of films critically.

Chaplin’s Modern Times reflects the dehumanizing effects of industrialization, portraying the struggle of workers caught in mechanized routines. Themes like materialistic greed, the death of craftsmanship, and capitalism’s exploitation dominate the film.

In contrast, The Great Dictator critiques dictatorial regimes and ego-driven leadership. Chaplin’s satirical portrayal of Hynkel highlights the absurdity of autocratic rule. Frames like Hynkel’s balloon dance with the world map symbolize the fragility of power and the leader’s self-destructive ego. Another striking image is of Hynkel posing with children, reflecting the manipulation of innocence for political propaganda—a trend that continues in modern political practices.

Both films explore societal issues such as industrialization, the rich-poor divide, rhetorical manipulation, and the human cost of egoistic leadership. Chaplin’s art captures the struggles of the 20th century, blending humor with a scathing critique of the era’s flaws.

Conclusion

The 20th century’s socio-economic-political landscape, marked by rapid progress and profound challenges, found a powerful voice in Charlie Chaplin’s cinematic masterpieces. By analyzing frames from Modern Times and The Great Dictator, we gain a deeper understanding of the contradictions and complexities of the era. These films, through their timeless narratives, serve as a reminder of the need for equality, humanity, and critical reflection in our pursuit of progress.