Silent Film

In Silent Film: A Very Short Introduction, Donna Kornhaber presents a detailed and engaging exploration of silent cinema, a formative period in the history of film. This book traces the origins, development, and impact of silent film, examining its artistic, cultural, and technological significance. Kornhaber discusses how silent films shaped the language of cinema, how they were received by audiences during their time, and their lasting legacy in modern cinema. Drawing on a range of examples, from early pioneers like Georges Méliès to the Hollywood blockbusters of the 1920s, this book highlights the artistic innovations and social changes that silent films both reflected and contributed to. It also considers how silent films can still resonate with contemporary viewers, showing their continued relevance in the digital age.

Why Read This Book

• Offers a comprehensive yet concise history of silent film, making it ideal for both beginners and those with an interest in film studies.
• Explores the cultural and technological developments that defined the silent film era, including innovations in narrative, performance, and cinematic techniques.
• Provides insights into iconic silent film figures, studios, and movements, giving a deeper understanding of their influence on contemporary cinema.
• Written by a knowledgeable expert in the field of film studies, Donna Kornhaber, who makes complex ideas accessible and engaging.
• Perfect for readers interested in film history, silent cinema, and the broader history of media.

About the Author

Donna Kornhaber is an associate professor of English at the University of Texas at Austin. She specializes in film studies, particularly the history of silent cinema. Kornhaber’s research interests include the cultural impact of early cinema and its intersections with literature and other forms of art. She is a leading scholar in the field and has written extensively on film history, including works that explore the silent film era and its lasting impact on contemporary filmmaking