American War Stories in the 21st Century Course Notes

Cultural Discourse on Warfare
- Television as a venue for discussing US warfare, especially the ongoing conflicts since 9/11.
- The relationship between the home front and battlefields is explored through various media.
The Unit (TV Show)
- Highlights the connection between military and home life.
- Presents the idea of a multi-ethnic platoon and critiques the narrative of the “outsourced empire.”
- Highlights Timothy Melley's idea of “geopolitical melodrama.”
Army Wives (TV Show)
- Discusses the political and cultural relevance of the show in reflecting 21st-century military life.
- Focuses on the home front and the experiences of military spouses, embracing themes of diversity and inclusion.
- Critically viewed as a means of softening public image of the military and increasing military engagement support.

Cultural Representation:
- Army Wives exemplifies the gendered narrative of military life, depicting issues such as love, domesticity, and the psychological effects of war on families.
- Challenges traditional media portrayals by integrating gender dynamics within military contexts.
Public Reception:
- Politicians like Obama and McCain publicly endorsing the show emphasize its cultural significance and its intent in generating empathy towards military families.
Character Dynamics:
- Highlights various character experiences, illustrating both personal struggles and the broader societal challenges faced by military families, including issues surrounding sexuality and identity post-DADT (Don't Ask, Don't Tell) repeal.
Commercial and Ideological Underpinnings:
- Production and alliances with the military-industrial complex raises questions about authenticity versus constructed narratives in popular media.
Social Commentary:
- The show acts as a vehicle for discussing deeply entrenched social issues such as homophobia, domestic violence, and family dynamics under the pressure of military commitments.

The dual narrative in Army Wives explores the experiences of both military personnel and their families, highlighting the concept of home as a battleground where personal and social conflicts unfold.
Portrayed stories challenge traditional notions of heroism, underscoring the conflicts between duty to the country and personal family responsibilities.

Next Week's Focus: War Literature and the experience of soldier-authors.
Suggested Reading: "Fire and Forget" (2013) - includes a foreword and the story "Raid" to prepare for the discussion.