The Rotten Fig

  Thesis Music comments on society in a palatable way by artists creating pieces that amplify what is going on in the world. Specifically, in a historical context, music can show us the past and bring insight into history. The music forged out of Ireland in response to the 30 year conflict known as The Troubles shines a light on the political violence, tragedy and suffering that Ireland endured. Irish bands U2 and The Cranberries both protested the hardships of their country through song.  Historical Context  The Troubles was a conflict in Ireland that began in 1968 and raged on for 30 bloody years till 1998. The conflict was over the decision to have Northern Ireland remain part of the UK or unite with the rest of Ireland. In the 17th century Britain claimed Ireland, a  primarily Protestant region, and it began to flourish. In south Ireland the Catholics had less resources and suffered. This is where the tensions started, which was amplified by the UK's decision t...

  Introduction   Little Miss Sunshine is one of my all time favourite films. I came across it a few years ago from a recommendation from a teammate and merely fell in love. The film always makes me feel better about life and family. It's such a comfort movie to me. The song I chose was "The Winner Is" from the film. It was written by DeVotchKa, a Denver based artist who also composed the rest of the music for the movie. I think it really is impactful to the plot and also all around the message of the movie.   Plot Little Miss Sunshine was released in January of 2006 as a tragic comedy that followed a dysfunctional family’s journey to a children’s beauty pageant. The film was Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris' directorial debut, and was written by Michael Arndt. The film was first released at the Sundanese Festival and later purchased by Fox, launching into mainstream culture. The film begins by introducing the audience to the motivations and personalities of the m...