Don Bradman: Challenging the Myth

by Brett Hutchins

Overview

Unlike the mostly reverent literature on Australia's most popular sporting hero, this book explains how Sir Donald Bradman's iconic status was created and sustained. How does his popularity and heroism relate to Australian nationhood? Brett Hutchins' unique analysis reveals the mythical character of so many representations of "the Don," and connects them to broader social phenomena and the cultural contexts in which they were created.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521823845
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	09/23/2002
Pages:	242
Product dimensions:	5.98(w) x 9.02(h) x 0.67(d)

About the Author

Brett Hutchins has published on various social and cultural issues in Australian sport, as well as commenting on the Bradman phenomenon in the media. He teaches sociology at the University of Tasmania.

Table of Contents

1. Our one national hero?; 2. Looking for heroes; 3. The boy from Bowral; 4. Bodyline and myth; 5. An insatiable demand; 6. Political connections; 7. Never quite typical; 8. Conclusion.

Editorial Reviews

'Much seems to have been written about Sir Donald Bradman; in fact, it is mostly the same things repeated endlessly. Brett Hutchins' book is different. It is a timely, fresh and judicious appraisal of the idea of Bradman in Australian culture, written in a sceptical but respectful way. I heartily recommend it.' Gideon Haigh

'A challenging revision of the myth of Don Bradman.' Graeme Turner

From the Publisher