The Divo and the Duce : promoting film stardom and political leadership in 1920s America /
Bertellini, Giorgio,1967-author.
"In the post-World War I American climate of isolationism, nativism, democratic expansion of civic rights, and consumerism, Italian-born star Rodolfo Valentino and Italy's dictator Benito Mussolini became surprising paragons of authoritarian male power and mass appeal. Drawing on extensive research in the United States and Italy, Giorgio Bertellini's work shows how their popularity, both political and erotic, largely depended on the efforts of public opinion managers, including publicists, journalists, and even ambassadors. Beyond the democratic celebrations of the Jazz Age, the promotion of their charismatic masculinity, while short-lived, inaugurated the now-familiar convergence of popular celebrity and political authority"--Provided by publisher.
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Introduction : "Nothing like going to an authority" -- Popular sovereignty, public opinion, and the presidency -- Cultural nationalism and democracy's opinion leaders -- Wartime film stardom and global leadership -- The divo, new style heavy -- The ballyhooed art of governing romance -- Stunts and plebiscites -- Promoting a romantic biography -- National leader, international actor -- Conclusions.
"In the post-World War I American climate of isolationism, nativism, democratic expansion of civic rights, and consumerism, Italian-born star Rodolfo Valentino and Italy's dictator Benito Mussolini became surprising paragons of authoritarian male power and mass appeal. Drawing on extensive research in the United States and Italy, Giorgio Bertellini's work shows how their popularity, both political and erotic, largely depended on the efforts of public opinion managers, including publicists, journalists, and even ambassadors. Beyond the democratic celebrations of the Jazz Age, the promotion of their charismatic masculinity, while short-lived, inaugurated the now-familiar convergence of popular celebrity and political authority"--Provided by publisher.
Valentino, Rudolph, 1895-1926.
Mussolini, Benito, 1883-1945.
Publicity
Mass media and publicity.
Communication in politics.
Celebrities in mass media.
Motion picture industry