Lauren+and+Agatha+Propaganda

Lauren


 * Explanation**: Basically our poster can be focused on two different categories which is the writing and the overall poster itself. Firstly the poster has a very strong color of red as a general background to represent the Chinese communist state. And to emphasize that the poster barely has other others mixed into it. But on the other hand, with the writing done in white around Mao's portrait, it not only emphasizes his face but also brings the viewer's eyes or attention to Mao. The white writing also can be used in some sort of a function to represent Mao's glory. Far away from the flag, the white writings actually look like a beam of light coming off of him. By having the whole poster focus nothing but on Mao's portrait, it shows Mao's use of cult of personality to show off or emphasize his glory and power as a leader of the country.

Secondly not only does the poster include a visual aspect but also a written aspect of the propaganda. The poem that goes around Mao's portrait shows or is there to represent his accomplishments. The first part of the poem talks about how with Mao's great revolutionary mind and passion, the people's blood and sacrifices are not wasted and that it rewards them. The second part of the poem mentions the benefits that Mao brought to the country. It talks about with his developments the citizens and the people have more clothes to keep them warm and more food on their table. Despite his failure in several of plans for China's economy, from his poster we can again see Mao's use of propaganda to brainwash the citizens to believe or trust him as the great leader. Also it was like a method to contain any enemies or oppositions from rising.


 * Evaluation**: Overall I really believe that Agatha and I were able to successfully work together as a group. In the beginning we did have some troubles coming up with the idea for the poster but with equal amount of contribution from both of us we came up with the poster that both of us agreed on. Secondly with Agatha writing the poem and me drawing the poster, we divided our tasks equally and didn't have one person working more than the other. Last but not least, by not having any communication problems, we didn't have any sort of conflicts nor disputes which again was another reason why were able to successfully finish this project. Agatha was an AWESOME partner also!

Agatha


 * Explanation**: The beauty of our poster is that it is not overly flashy, and its simplicity makes it pleasing to look at. After closing your eyes for ten minutes and looking at our poster, your attention should go directly to Mao. This is not coincidental, but it is our intention to make Mao the focal point of our piece. The red flag in the background symbolizes the Chinese communist state, of course. If you read the poem, you will see the connection to the color red to the possible violence from the Cultural Revolution. In a packet of Mao’s quotations, one of his quotes said, “A revolution is not a dinner party…A revolution is an insurrection, an act of violence by which one class overthrows another.” Likewise, the poem reminds the reader that Mao’s revolution is not a peaceful but a violent one, but he also promises that each sacrifice made for communism sake will be worthwhile.

The second half of the poem also talks about the improvements that came from the economic plans Mao had made. Obviously, the propaganda exaggerates or even blatantly lies about the results of the Five-year plan. It was a failure, and it rather hurt the people more than helping them. The propaganda ignores such facts and brainwashes the people into thinking that the plan actually helped. The poem glorifies Mao beyond what he actually deserves, and it is definitely motivating people to follow him. The revolution itself is glorified, and Mao and revolutionists are portrayed as very heroic. Mao is described as gracious because he has to have a positive image in order for people to follow him. He is even depicted as a fatherly figure.


 * Evaluation**: Lauren and I had no conflict. We divvied up the work, and we both got our part of the job done. Both of us were willing to listen to each other’s ideas, and we didn’t boss each other around. No one tried to dominate, but we both made thoughtful contributions to the project. Lauren drew the poster, and I wrote the poem. I don’t have much to say because Lauren was an AWESOME partner!

Poem (White circle)
Look! Leader Mao stands against the glorious flag! Dipped in the revolutionary bloods, it's an emblem of our worthy cause. Blood, sweat, tears- they are never wasted. Every effort and sacrifice are rewarded in full passionate yet gracious is our leader Mao!

Doesn't he give us clothes on our backs and food on our table! And who has ever done this before? Mao and Mao only! Let's fight for Mao!