Images as Templates for Collective Memory: Symbolism and Performance in Iconic and Popular Photographs of Woodstock 1969, 1994 and 1999

Abstract

This thesis explored the significance of the 1969 Woodstock festival and its anniversary festivals as indicated through media use of iconic and popular photographs. The literature review examines the role of iconic and journalistic images in the collective memory of historic events. The dynamic interplay of collective memory and images forms the theoretical backbone of the thesis, which applies semiotic analysis to interpret the meaning and significance of three significant photographs from the festivals. Results indicate that photographs from the original festival are icons forming the template against which photographs from later festivals can be understood and read. Images from anniversaries of the festival reflect a ritualistic repetition of themes from the original festival, as well as its increasing commercialization.