Leading Men of Hollywood's Golden Age

The men of Hollywood’s Golden Age seemed almost mythic, the way they commanded the screen and shaped our ideas of the American hero and what it means to be a man. Their faces, their walks and the way they took on the world were how we saw dreamboats, rogues, rascals, power, justice, courage, and romance. While their mere presence told a whole story, they also showed a versatility that revealed the myriad facets, noble and otherwise, of manhood. Women sighed for them, men wanted to be them. We’ll focus on one star per week, with abundant film clips and discussions. The actors are Henry Fonda, Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart, Clark Gable, Gregory Peck, Humphrey Bogart. You will be asked to watch one film before each class. Registering at least 3 weeks prior to the course start date is highly recommended.
 
Continuing Education Units (CEU) : 0

You'll walk away with

• An understanding of how Golden Age Hollywood actors shaped cultural ideals of masculinity and the American hero.
• The ability to analyze film performances for the ways they reflect and construct social values around gender, power, and romance.
• A deeper appreciation for the artistry and versatility of stars like Fonda, Grant, Stewart, Gable, Peck, and Bogart.

Ideal for

• Movie buffs
• All members of the community—working, retired, and in between