ReNe Troy-Mebane

Introduction
Kenneth Burke introduced the theory that literature

provides readers options for behavior in society (Littlejohn & Foss, 2011, p. 358)
Has evolved to include theater and movies Bakhtins Theory of Dialogics explains there is an

endless presence of disorder in daily life (Littlejohn & Foss, 2011, p. 238), supporting Burkes hypothesis
Rocky III provides equipment for living

Literature Review
Scholars support Burkes theory Disagree about effects, how they are achieved and

lasting effect
Gap in research: audiences realize reactions and

interpretations of a film are based upon personal experience

What interpretations mean and implications of any

resulting actions in the world

Methodology
Fantasy themes are details of the story that act as

building blocks of drama

Lead to a groups common perception

Fantasy themes developed to a high degree of

familiarity are fantasy types

Stock situations repeated so often the individual, group

or community interprets the drama as reality (Littlejohn & Foss, 2011).

Methodology
Self-other distinction says audience members have a

sense of self that objectifies a film unless it provides equipment for living
Film plays an active role in altering the self and

viewers apply their interpretations and own experience to the dramatic context

Methodology
Self-other distinction says audience members have a

sense of self that objectifies a film unless it provides equipment for living
Film plays an active role in altering the self and

viewers apply their interpretations and own experience to the dramatic context

Data

Data

Data

Analysis
Rocky epitomizes the shared fantasy theme

representing the underdog story

Bakhtins Theory of Dialogics may explain why

audiences experience self-other distinction

Discussion
The Rocky fantasy theme effect self-other distinction
Underdog with parallel contextual situations
Friends dont owe

Complacency leads to failure

Never give up

Conclusion
Successful people will experience low points in life, including deaths of loved-ones and challenges to selfesteem; but the keys to gaining and maintaining personal success is an unwavering belief in ones ability and a conscious effort to sustain passion and excitement for that which has brought success.

References
Littlejohn, S., & Foss, K. (2011). Theories of Human Communication (10th ed.). Long Grove, IL: Waveland Press, Inc. Peter, Z., Xi, Y., & Yi, Z., (2012). The rhetorical-theatrical sensibility as equipment for living. Etc.: A Review of General Semantics, (69)2, 186-196. Stallone, S. (1982). Rocky III. United States: United Artists. Young, S.D. (2000). Movies as Equipment for Living: A Developmental Analysis of the Importance of Film in Everyday Life. Critical Studies in Mass Communication, 17(4), 447-468.