Visibly Public: Spectacularizing Social Identities in Victorian Canada
This section is concerned with the visual culture of post- Confederation Victorian Canada and the spectacularization of particular identities. Using novel and extravagant sensory strategies, visual culture attracted the citizens and encouraged public consumption of shared memories. Here, I examine how modern nations authenticated themselves, their beliefs and their traditions, through a variety of structures and practices; in particular I look grandstand spectacles at the Toronto Industrial Fair and the St.-Jean Baptiste Day celebrations in Quebec City and Montreal.
