This one-stop primer offers a succinct analysis of one of the most
skillfully produced, artistically innovative, and culturally resonant
scripted series in modern television. It opens by explaining how Mad
Men (AMC, 2007-2015) functions as a representative example of much
deeper and more profound structural changes happening in television
since the 2000s. Gary R. Edgerton highlights influences driving the
creation of the show, including creator Matthew Weiner's personal
connections to the subject matter and the development of the main
character, Don Draper (Jon Hamm). Analysis of the show's story
progression is delineated by a pivotal shift from a culturally relevant
Zeitgeist phenomenon to a narrative more concerned with Draper's
introspective and existential journey to reconciliation and
self-awareness. Cultural reflections are also explored with
interrogations of privilege and prejudice, the American Dream,
ethnicity, race, gender politics, and class as witnessed through the
program's complex and conflicted characters.
Following its debut, Mad Men quickly became a bellwether of
contemporary culture. The award-winning series set the creative standard
in drama over the span of its initial run and is now recognized as a
milestone in the history and development of scripted television.
Throughout its seven seasons, the series struck a delicate balance of
being both complex and cerebral while also entertaining and accessible,
a balance that Edgerton skillfully carries over to this book.
