Jo's Contemporary Icon Picks...
The image of the United States flag, the symbolic golden arches of McDonalds, and the character from the animated television series SpongeBob SquarePants are recognized as three contemporary icons.
Readily recognized to stand for freedom, the U.S. Flag is frequently displayed, and its image is used as motif for decals, clothing, badges, and pins. It references the history of our nation, our government, and the personal liberty around which the emotions tend to run high(Struefert, 1994). The “m” in McDonalds is a permanently cemented letter symbolizing fast food (Gysler, 2007). Popular because the service is engineered to fit into our busy lifestyles, the big, yellow letter is widely recognized and loved by our children for their Happy Meals and indoor/outdoor playgrounds. Finally, how many of us (regardless of whether or not we watch the show) know the words to the SpongeBob theme song? The cartoon character known as “SpongeBob” was designed to appeal to adults as well as children. The overly optimistic sponge that annoys his fellow characters has maintained broad appeal from the absurdity of situations, the references, and the language used in the underwater life of Bikini Bottom (Time, 2009).
I chose “Old Glory” because it stands for nationalism and power. It mirrors freedom, confidence, and pride, and it is loved, respected, and saluted. The United States Flag is one of the most widely recognized symbols around the world. The golden arches of McDonalds were chosen because it has become a worldwide symbol and prominent in our way of life. Not many could forego the convenience and dollar menu prices! Finally, my favorite porous character that “lives under a pineapple, under the sea” has evolved from a Nickelodeon cartoon character to an international phenomenon. SpongeBob SquarePants has become an inspiration with cultural significance. Viewers can identify with the characters that they laugh at. Personally, I can relate to the sponge’s Naiveté’s and how the pop culture icon makes the simplest of things look complicated!
References:
TIME Online. (2009). Best and Worst Lists. The 100 Best T.V. Shows of All Time: SpongeBob SquarePants. http://www.time.com/time/specials/2007/article/0,28804,1651341_1659196_1652730,00.html
Gysler, Valerie. (12 December, 2007). McDonald’s and Pop Culture. Retrieved on May 24, 2009 from http://www.socyberty.com/Society/McDonalds-and-Pop-Culture.66076
Struefert, Duane. (20 November, 1994). The History of the Flag of the United States of America. Retrieved on May 24th, 2009 from http://www.usflag.org/history.html
Turnitin.com Submission: Icon Analysis [2-2] 05/24/09 – 0%
Oh mighty arches! My son knows them as well as I do. I can still be on a trip somewhere and see an exit approaching and think, "Ohhhh...mighty arches".
ReplyDeleteNow Spongebob...please don't think ill of me, but I can sing the theme song from start, "Are you ready kids?", to "Drop on the deck and flop like a fish", thru to the end. My son loves him. It's good humor and fun. It proves that people from different backgrounds can be friends. Spongebob, Patrick, Mr. Crabs, Plankton, Squidward, Sandy, and don't forget Gary.
If I only had a dollar for everytime I've been to a McDonalds. I used to pick at my son that he was going to turn into a chicken nugget one day. Spongebob, I must admit I'm a fan. When he first came on tv, he was part of our weekend routine. Breakfast and Spongebob. Would a Calgon moment take me to Bikini Bottom?
ReplyDeleteMcDonalds has become a routine stop for many families, so much that my niece could recognize the golden arches when she was just three! I have to admit, if I'm on a long road trip and I see the golden arches, I get a little excited! :) Great choices for icons!
ReplyDeleteAs much as I hate to admit it I frequently visit McDonalds. I know its horrible for me but sometimes its just so convient. I always begged my mom to go to McDonalds so I could get a toy in my happy meal and because this particular McDonalds had a huge fish tank in it. I agree with all of your choices.
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