The Mask of Suspicion: The Cold War and the Contours of Postmodern Thought

In the shadow of the Cold War, a new era of literary criticism emerged, shaped by the pervasive skepticism and suspicion of the nuclear age. This book delves into the complex relationship between the Cold War and the emergence of postmodern thought, exploring how the Cold War mentality influenced the contours of postmodern criticism.

Postmodern theorists, steeped in the Cold War’s atmosphere of uncertainty and distrust, embraced skepticism as a critical tool, questioning the foundations of knowledge and the very nature of reality. They argued that language is inherently unstable and unreliable, incapable of conveying objective truth. This linguistic skepticism led to a fascination with the indeterminacy and undecidability of language, which became central to postmodern literary theory.

The Cold War’s impact on postmodern thought extended beyond skepticism. The conflict’s geopolitical dynamics, the rise of superpowers, and the struggle for global dominance profoundly influenced the way postmodern theorists conceptualized power and identity. The Cold War’s legacy of division and fragmentation also contributed to the postmodern preoccupation with the fractured and fragmented self.

This book offers a comprehensive examination of the Cold War’s multifaceted impact on postmodern thought. Through detailed analysis of key theoretical texts and movements, we trace the evolution of skepticism, the interrogation of language, and the reconfiguration of power and identity in postmodern criticism. We argue that the Cold War’s cultural and intellectual legacy continues to shape contemporary thought and culture, even in the post-Cold War era.

This book is essential reading for scholars and students of literature, cultural studies, and history. It provides a deeper understanding of the intellectual currents that have shaped our contemporary world and offers new insights into the complex relationship between politics, culture, and literature.

If you like this book, write a review!

Click here to read a free extract of this book! 

Publisher ‏: ‎ PageBook24.com (January 13, 2025)
Language : ‎ English
Dimensions ‏: ‎ 6 x 9 inches
Pages ‏: ‎ 169 pages

Pasquale De Marco stands as a prolific author whose literary prowess knows no bounds. With a passion for storytelling that transcends genres, he has made a name for himself as a versatile writer with the extraordinary ability to captivate readers across diverse literary landscapes. His journey as an author is marked by an insatiable curiosity, a love for the written word, and a relentless commitment to sharing knowledge and experiences with the world.

Pasquale De Marco collaborates with a dedicated team of ghostreaders who assist him in evaluating and editing the manuscripts. His collaborators are not only skilled professionals but also avid readers who purchase and read books as a personal hobby. This unique blend of creativity allows Pasquale to push the boundaries of traditional publishing, making literature more accessible and diverse.