The French theory that explains Trump's 'demented' weekend spectacle - Alternet.org
alternet.org
Roland Barthes' "spectacle of excess" — a French theory about how overwhelming theatrical display manufactures political myth — may be the sharpest lens for decoding Trump's weekend performance.
Spectacle of ExcessMythologies (Barthes)Political SymbolismSemiotics
Theory Briefing
- Roland Barthes coined the 'spectacle of excess' to explain how over-the-top display creates symbolic power beyond rational argument.
- Alternet applies Barthes' framework to Trump's weekend spectacle, framing it as myth-making rather than mere chaos.
- The theory suggests such performances aren't 'demented' accidents but calculated rituals that naturalise political dominance.