Apply the framework of generic application (as outlined in Foss, Ch. 7 & discussed in lecture) to the video below—a 2013 interview between Matt Lauer and Paula Deen.
Recall that generic application asks you to compare/contrast the artifact under analysis (Deen's interview) with the already established situational requirements, substantive characteristics, and stylistic characteristics of an existing genre. For this analysis, we'll be considering how well the Deen interview fits within the framework/genre of racializing apologia outlined by Holling, Moon, & Jackson Nevis (in attachmetns in the article assigned for this week ).
First, review this short article (https://www.delish.com/restaurants/g20898890/timeline-of-paula-deens-downfall/ ) (up to the heading "Deen appears on the Today show") to get a sense of the issues that Deen is apologizing for (what Holling, Moon, & Jackson Nevis would term "racist violations").
Then, watch the interview (embedded below) and create a thread that follows the instructions at the end of this post.
Artifact video : https://youtu.be/9PL02LMD8Gw
Respond to each of the following prompts/questions, providing evidence (direct quotes and vivid descriptions) from the interview as well as explanations/reasoning to support your interpretations. In response to questions 2 & 3, you should also bring in relevant supporting material from the Holling, Moon, & Jackson Nevis article. Remember: good analysis requires you to dig deep into the substance, style, and context of the artifact to provide insightful interpretations of the underlying meaning and significance of what's being said and how it's being said.
- First, consider the artifact on its own terms. What are the most significant elements (substance and style) of what Deen is saying in this interview? How would you characterize Deen's (first) persona and second persona/ideal audience? What seems to be the purpose/goal of her commentary in this interview?
- A primary situational requirement for racializing apologia is the commitment of racist violations, and the Holling, Moon, & Jackson Nevis article identifies three types of racist violations. Using Holling, Moon, & Jackson Nevis as well as the artifact embedded and the article linked above, identify and discuss the specific types of racist violations to which Deen is responding.
- Holling, Moon, & Jackson Nevis identify three key substantive/stylistic characteristics of racializing apologia. Discuss where and how some or all of these characteristics manifest in Deen's interview.
- Based on your analysis and responses to the above questions, discuss how well Deen's commentary in this interview fits within the genre of racializing apologia as described by Holling, Moon, & Jackson Nevis. Are there additional characteristics that we might add to the genre of racializing apologia based on your analysis of this artifact? What are the possible implications/consequences of how Deen discusses her racist violations in this interview?