Orson Welles and the 1938 The War of the Worlds Broadcast

Delve into the fascinating history of the "War of the Worlds" radio broadcast, a pivotal moment in media history and a captivating case study in mass psychology. This course explores the cultural context surrounding H.G. Wells' novel and its adaptation for radio in 1938, a time of rising global tensions.

Key topics covered:

• The Rise of Martian Speculation: Discover how Mars captured the imagination of 19th-century astronomers and fueled speculation about life on Mars.
• Science Fiction's Influence: Understand how authors like H.G. Wells popularized the idea of alien invasions, shaping narratives in literature and early electronic media.
• Radio's Power in 1930s America: Explore the role of radio broadcasting as a primary source of news and entertainment, particularly overseas bulletins reporting on the escalating threat of war in Europe and Asia.
• Orson Welles and "The War of the Worlds": Examine Orson Welles' ambitious adaptation of H.G. Wells' novel, utilizing realistic news bulletins to create a sense of immediacy and authenticity.
• The Broadcast's Impact: Analyze the unprecedented public reaction to the radio drama, including widespread panic and disruption of communication networks. Learn about the societal factors that made the broadcast so effective.
• Reactions & Legacy: Investigate the national and international responses to the broadcast, and consider its lasting impact on media history and the relationship between radio, news, and public perception.

Course Features:

• Video Storytelling: Approximately 1.5 hours of engaging video content.
• Original Broadcast Access: Links to listen to or read the original "War of the Worlds" radio play (approx. 45 minutes).
• Comprehensive Resources: Supplemental documents with recommended readings and a detailed bibliography in APA format.
• Self-Paced Learning: Complete the course in approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes.
• Six Sections: Structured learning modules for a thorough understanding of the topic.

This course is ideal for anyone interested in media studies, history, science fiction, radio history, or the psychology of mass communication. Explore the enduring legacy of the "War of the Worlds" broadcast and its relevance to today's media landscape.