Original works, in my opinion, are more important than the works inspired by them. Obviously, the adaptations of the original have their own important place in the world, but because the original work was great enough to encourage adaptations, I think that the original has more value.
Anything that can survive over many years and can still be a well-known or even loved story is an extremely valuable work to society. I think that in a hierarchy of texts the adaptations would rank lower than the original in worth simply because they were inspired by the original. If the first work is able to inspire others to create something new based on it, that work must truly be something groundbreaking.
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An example to support my opinion is Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Ever since the story’s creation, it has inspired adaptations like films, television shows, video games, etc. Shelley’s classic tale and monster were altered countless times. The monster changed from Shelley’s heartbreaking and flawed creature to a mechanical, murderous beast and then back to somewhat of a tragic hero. There has been a staggering amount of film adaptations and even parodies created based on the story.
The story has probably been translated into every form of art, and while all have their rightful place and importance to society, the original Frankenstein, having inspired all of them, is doubtless the most valuable text. The adaptations were created because the story had a profound effect on humanity in the first place.
Therefore, I believe that the power that some works have had on humanity makes them a more valuable work than the works that were created because of them.
This blog had a lot of interesting points. I really liked that your example was Frankenstein. You have no idea how much my dad will talk about and re-enact this movie. It has truly changed over the years to suit it's current audience. I believe that's where most adaptations or even mutations stem from. The movie making industry has gone from wanting people to see the beauty in books to wanting to make money by pleasing their audience. And the audience today is spoiled and bored with the old renditions. We've seen it too many times and want something new and different, but nothing is really new in the world. It's all been done before;Adaptated.
ReplyDeleteLeah, as I read I wondered why you thought Frankenstein had a powerful effect on humanity? Was there anything happening at the time it was written to make it a relevant story for the times? What makes it relevant now?
ReplyDeleteI definitely agree that the original works are better. Try as they might, adaptations are usually pretty shitty. Nothing's ever as good as the original, even when it comes to sequels. Which is why I'm glad they decided against the sequel to Anchorman. Frankenstein is crazy; there must be over 50 different versions of it. When I was younger, my cousin and I used to walk around the house and act like Frankenstein, making groaning noises and such. Nice blog, though- short and sweet.
ReplyDeleteI fully agree with your view on original works. Although adaptations may explore new areas not touched upon by the original author, they simply cannot be as good. Try as they may to make aspects more flashy or interesting, adaptations do not measure up. I agree that originals like Frankenstein are the most valuable considering they are imitated countless times. I believe they should be given the most credit.
ReplyDeleteRowena:
ReplyDeleteThe story of Frankenstein has had a powerful effect on humanity because it explores the dangers of science. How far can one go before they begin to play God? An issue that is still relevant. It also deals with a person's responsibility for his or hers own actions/creations. And obviously it was an original concept in horror that has intrigued many people over the years. Plus, it was a masterfully written work in general.
Thank you all for comments!