Post-Modernism in Kubrick's A Clockwork Orange

Post-modernism was prominently explored in Kubrick’s A Clockwork Orange, particularly in regards to Alex’s love of Beethoven. A heavily present component of post-modernism in A Clockwork Orange is the act of taking something already existent and changing it in some way. Alex has a great appreciation for Beethoven; a particular scene shows Alex returning home after a night of violent antics, he goes on to say that listening to Beethoven would ‘top off’ his night. Horrific scenes, including a woman being hung, are shown whilst Beethoven’s 9^th plays. The juxtaposition of the classical music alongside Beethoven is a post modernistic notion.

Another overtly explored element of post-modernism is the way social forces aim to shape an individual’s identity. Alex is a clearly unique character with very particular interests such as his love of violence as an art form. Authoritative figures aim to correct Alex’s behaviour by forcing him to watch disturbing scenes whilst listening to Beethoven. Despite Alex’s despicable nature, Kubrick creates a sense of sympathy for Alex due to the fact he is being torn of his individual identity.