The Sopranos
The Sopranos by Gary Richard Edgerton, published by Wayne State University Press in 2013, offers an in-depth exploration of the iconic television series that premiered in 1999. This edition, comprising 117 pages, delves into the show’s significant impact on the television landscape, highlighting its ability to blend artistic merit with commercial success. Edgerton examines the series’ innovations and legacy, providing a comprehensive analysis that integrates existing scholarly literature while expanding on the show’s cultural and industrial significance.
Readers will find a thorough examination of various aspects of The Sopranos, including the autobiographical influences of creator David Chase and the narrative elements that shaped the series. Edgerton also focuses on the cultural geography of New Jersey, illustrating how it reflects broader national themes. Additionally, he discusses the transformations within the gangster genre that the series embodies, culminating in a conclusion that addresses its lasting impact on television. This volume serves as both an educational resource for scholars and an engaging read for fans interested in the complexities of this landmark show.
Official synopsis Publisher
From its premiere in 1999, The Sopranos captivated viewers with its easily relatable protagonist who has troubles at work and home, and went on to be one of the most critically successful shows in television history. By demonstrating that TV could be at once artistic and profitable, complex and engaging, edifying and entertaining, the series also redefined the prime-time drama. In this volume, author Gary R. Edgerton delves into the entire run of The Sopranos, integrating the existing scholarly literature, while also going much further than any previous source in exploring the series’ innovations and legacy.
First, Edgerton describes and analyzes The Sopranos‘ enormous business and industrial significance within the context of HBO as a network, a diversified entertainment company, and an identity brand. In chapter 2, he examines the many autobiographical influences and work experiences of creator David Chase and the narrative antecedents that informed the series’ beginnings. In chapter 3, Edgerton underscores The Sopranos‘ deeply evocative sense of place, honing in especially on the cultural geography of New Jersey as representative of the nation as a whole. Finally, in chapter 4, Edgerton highlights how The Sopranos marks “A Midlife Crisis for the Gangster Genre” by illustrating some of the most profound generic transformations that took place over the course of the show, while his conclusion summarizes The Sopranos‘ ongoing industrial, aesthetic, and cultural legacy.
The Sopranos is widely recognized in both popular and scholarly literature as a turning point in the history and development of TV. Fans who want to learn more about the show and scholars of television history will enjoy this entertaining and educational volume.
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