Debutante

Rites and Regalia of American Debdom
Erscheinungsjahr 2004
ISBN: 978-0-7006-1317-5
Verlag: University Press of Kansas

Buch, Englisch, 224 Seiten, Hardback, Format (B × H): 161 mm x 238 mm, Gewicht: 490 g

Reihe: CultureAmerica

It is an institution that seems almost hopelessly out of date, a social relic of bygone times. The very word ""debutante"" evokes images of prim, poised beauty, expensive gowns, and sumptuous balls, all of which seem anachronistic in these post-women's liberation times. But as Karal Ann Marling reveals, debdom in America is alive and well and ever evolving. For thousands of young women every year, the society debut remains a vital rite of passage, a demonstration of female power; debs continue to be viewed as the finest flowers of a distinctive American culture. T he debut and its offshoots - the high school prom, the sorority presentation, assorted beauty pageants - continue to emphasize celebrity, class, and community. But why does this peculiar tradition persist? Marling has the answer, as she demystifies debdom and the ""long-term American hankering after the trappings of royalty."" Debutante presents a penetrating and entertaining look at American debdom from the colonial era to the present day. Debbing has always been a performance art, created by and for women.

Autoren/Hrsg.

Marling, Karal Ann

Über Autor(innen)

Karal Ann Marling is the author of nineteen books, including As Seen on TV, George Washington Slept Here, and, most recently, Merry Christmas!