Watch The Odyssey of Western Civilization Lecture #8: A Century of the Modern and Postmodern West ? 1918 to 2011

The Odyssey of Western Civilization Lecture #8: A Century of the Modern and Postmodern West – 1918 to 2011 is a historical documentary film, featuring Victor Davis Hanson as the presenter. The eighth installment in the series, this film traces the cultural, social, and political developments of the Western world from the end of World War I to the beginning of the 21st century.

The film opens with a brief overview of the aftermath of World War I, which left the European continent in ruins and transformed the global order. As the world began to recover from the shock of the war, new ideologies, technologies, and cultural movements emerged that would shape the century to come. The film delves into the rise of fascism, communism, and other political movements that would come to define the following decades.

Throughout the century, the West saw incredible advancements in science and technology, and the Odyssey of Western Civilization Lecture #8 highlights many of these groundbreaking achievements. From the development of the atomic bomb to the exploration of space, the film explores the ways in which these discoveries transformed the world and impacted society.

The film also examines the social and cultural changes that occurred throughout the century, including the rise of feminism and civil rights movements, the sexual revolution, and the development of new art forms like pop art and postmodernism. The film takes a critical look at some of the more controversial aspects of the postmodern era, including the erosion of traditional values and the rise of identity politics.

One of the main themes of the film is the tension between modernity and postmodernity in the Western world. The film explores the ways in which the two eras are fundamentally different, and how postmodernity rejected many of the key values of the modern era. The film also examines the philosophical and moral implications of these changes, and asks whether the postmodern era has been a positive or negative development for Western society.

Victor Davis Hanson guides viewers through this fascinating century of Western history, drawing on his extensive knowledge and expertise in the field. A renowned historian and author, Hanson brings a wealth of insights and perspectives to the film, providing a nuanced and insightful analysis of these complex historical and cultural developments.

Overall, The Odyssey of Western Civilization Lecture #8: A Century of the Modern and Postmodern West – 1918 to 2011 is a compelling and thought-provoking documentary that offers a deep dive into the major cultural, social, and political changes that defined the Western world in the 20th and early 21st centuries. With its engaging style, insightful commentary, and powerful message, the film is sure to fascinate viewers and spark discussions about the nature of progress, identity, and the human experience.