Cultural identity through narrative: The Pursuit of Happiness by edith serna

The Pursuit of Happiness (2006).

sernaedith340 — 2025-10-07 17:44:35 UTC

This film, inspired by the real life of Chris Gardner, tells the story of the difficulties faced by a single African American father struggling to achieve financial and professional stability for the well-being of himself and his son in the United States.

sernaedith340 — 2025-10-07 17:48:44 UTC

The story is set in the United States in the early 1980s, a period marked by economic crisis, unemployment, and a lack of solid social support policies. This is a context in which the so-called “American dream” was consolidating itself as a central element of American cultural equality, defined by the belief that anyone, with effort and perseverance, can achieve success. Gardner's life reveals the profound contradictions of this ideal, as poverty, racial discrimination, and structural inequalities hinder this path.

According to Riley (2007), cultural identity is constructed through the interaction between language, symbols, and social practices that a group shares and transmits. In this case, the cinematic narrative functions as a cultural discourse that reflects both the collective aspirations and social tensions that shape life in the United States.

sernaedith340 — 2025-10-07 17:53:26 UTC

Cultural themes and values:

· Individual perseverance

· Importance of family

· Pursuit of economic success (American dream)

Social norms represented:

· Belief in meritocracy

· Stigmatization of poverty

· Racial and economic inequality

Implications for cultural identity:

· Reaffirms the value of personal effort as part of American identity

· Challenges the myth of the American dream by showing structural barriers

· Exposes tensions between ideals of equality and realities of exclusion.

The pursuit of happiness (2006).

sernaedith340 — 2025-10-07 17:54:22 UTC

The film The Pursuit of Happiness is a clear example of how a cultural narrative can reflect the values and issues of a society. Through the story of Chris Gardner, values deeply linked to American identity are conveyed, such as perseverance, sacrifice, and faith that individual effort can transform lives. Gardner represents personal struggle as a symbol of hope, reinforcing the idea that success is achievable for everyone.

The narrative also shows that the path to success is fraught with obstacles that do not depend solely on individual will. Homelessness, discrimination, and the lack of institutional support networks show how social norms can marginalize certain groups. According to Sinha (2020), narratives function as signs of life that not only convey cultural values but also reveal the contradictions of societies. In this case, the film shows the tension between meritocratic discourse and the reality of social exclusion.

From Riley's perspective (2007), cultural identity is shaped by shared symbols and practices that give meaning to community life. The “American dream,” as a cultural symbol, not only defines individuals' aspirations, but also legitimizes a social system where success is associated with economic and professional achievement.

The most important implication of this narrative is that it allows us to see American cultural identity as a space of tension. On the one hand, individual effort is exalted as a core value; on the other, it is clear that economic and social inequality limits opportunities for many citizens.