Icon Analysis

This assignment called for the identification of three contemporary icons. In order for something to be considered iconic, it must fit one of three criteria. It must be something that is impressive. It must be something that literally cannot be touched. The final criteria is that a person has an emotional attachment to it that it could be considered obsessive.

The Ford Mustang has been a symbol of American automotive performance since its creation in 1964. The Mustang has been been through many transitions through the years and still retains its place as a symbol of American automotive performance. While other manufacturers have stopped manufacturing muscle style cars, The Ford Motor Company has continued to manufacture and continuously improve the Mustang. The Mustang was identified because an iconic figure could not be touched. Ask anyone that owns a Ford Mustang, regardless of the year, if you can touch their car.

NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt can be considered an icon of contemporary culture. Before his death in 2001, Earnhardt was one of his sport's greatest names. His name carries on today through memorabilia sales and through the name of his son; the sport's most popular driver. Eight years after his death, his signature number three can still be seen on fan's apparel or even their automobiles. One of the requirements of an icon was an emotional attachment that borders obsession of the icon. This is apparent through his fans purchasing his merchandise over eight years after his death.

The final contemporary icon is an American soldier. While views may differ about our involvement in overseas conflicts, the sight of an American soldier is their dress attire is impressive. Whether the soldier is well decorated or new to the service, the respect that they receive because of their bravery and the freedoms that their efforts give to us as Americans is more than impressive.