Republicanism

Republicanism: The Myth of Mutiny

This session kicks off Unit 2, during which the class will unpack six state-sanctioned cultural values that underpin ideas of ‘American exceptionalism’. First up is the value most obviously associated with the founding of the United States: republicanism and its association with independence from Britain.

Several full-length musicals have focused on the US’ origin story. 1776 centres around John Adams and is a fairly traditional book musical; more recently, Hamilton has popularised the integration of rap in musical theatre and generated new audiences for the art form.

Foundational Claim:

“...it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government...”

Share: a fun fact you know about the American Revolutionary War. (Do this before reviewing any of this week’s materials: Focus on what comes to mind without any research!) After you’ve written your summary, refresh your memory with the overviews below (which both feature Trumball’s famous painting as their preview image...).

American Revolution FactsThis article provides answers to frequently asked questions about the American Revolution which began in earnest on April 19, 1775 with the battles of Lexington and Concord. We include a timeline, major battle information, key players, and more.

American Revolution | Causes, Battles, Aftermath, & FactsAmerican Revolution (1775–83), insurrection by which 13 of Great Britain’s North American colonies won political independence and went on to form the United States of America. The war followed more than a decade of growing estrangement between the British crown and many North American colonists.

Case Study: Staging the American Revolution

Consider: the primary goal of the American Revolution, as you understand it. Then skim chapter 4 of Heike Paul’s The Myths that Made America (“American Independence and the Myth of the Founding Fathers”), and consider whether you think that goal is really why the American Revolution was fought.

Watch: a couple scenes from 1776 that showcase interpersonal politics among the Founding Fathers in the lead-up to the Fourth of July. Pay particular attention to the difference in tone between this show and Hamilton, with an eye towards sets, costumes, and musical choices.

Critique: different stagings and framings of 1776 and Hamilton, especially when it comes to casting (a topic that divides critics!).

In the Broadway musical '1776,' the revolution is in the castingThis production uses a cast of multi-racial actors who are female, nonbinary and trans — people who weren't even considered in the Declaration of Independence.

Yes, 1776 Should Be Authentically Cast — OnStage Blog“Hamilton is, of course, a musical that represents, among other things, a way for BIPOC communities to celebrate the story of our nation’s founding. As we and many others have correctly noted, it should be told by BIPOC performers only. But, if we are being consistent, 1776 should be performed by wh

1776 review – musical revival needs more independence from the originalA diverse re-envisioning of the 1969 historical musical offers up some great opportunities for a game cast but struggles to justify its existence

Concept: Republicanism

Explore: the non-partisan, political system meaning of the term ‘republican’ by reading the article by Bolt below. (You can also enjoy the King’s mockery of the idea in the Hamilton clip below...)

Republicanism - North Carolina HistoryRepublicanism is a term for beliefs that have defined the American political experiment. In particular, republicanism stems from a form a government where the people are sovereign. In such a government, virtuous and autonomous citizens must exercise self-control for the common good. Republican citizens should not seek office or use public office for economic gain. Public officials must subordinate their personal ambitions for the good of the community. A republican citizen also must be prepared to thwart corrupting influences that would lead the nation toward tyranny or despotism. Republicanism is based on the assumption that liberty and power continually battle.

Complete: Anthem Analysis # 4 by answering the questions below.

Google Sites

Report abuse