Overview
- The setting plays a vital role in developing captivating and authentic narratives.
- Social media users expressed their disappointment regarding Lazarus’s depiction of Istanbul.
- It is essential for creators to accurately represent cultural elements to respectfully portray foreign locations in entertainment.
In storytelling, setting is nearly as essential as character development for forging immersive and believable narratives. Adult Swim’s Lazarus is set in a futuristic world of the 2050s, creating a stark contrast with elements from the “old world.”This distinctive universe is significantly influenced by the life-altering “Hapna”drug, devised by Dr. Deniz Skinner, allowing humanity a fleeting moment of unparalleled bliss. Nonetheless, the intricacies of the world depicted in the series still feel somewhat unexplored.
After a recent clip from episode 3 was shared by Adult Swim, viewers flocked to social media to voice their dissatisfaction about the representation of Istanbul, the historic capital of Turkey. Many felt it was portrayed as a generic version of Arabia rather than an accurate reflection of Istanbul’s true essence. Are these critiques justified? Let’s delve deeper.
Historical Insight
Istanbul: A Historical Gem
In the clip featuring Axel surrounded by a bustling crowd traversing the streets of Istanbul, many viewers lamented how the portrayal of the city deviated markedly from its actual counterpart. The prevailing opinion is that the city appeared more as a blend of Arab-inspired elements rather than a well-researched depiction of Istanbul’s rich history and geography. Though Istanbul has historical ties to the Arab world, dating back to its establishment by Greek settlers in the 7th century BCE, its legacy is far more complex.
The significant Arab influence primarily arose in the 15th century when Istanbul served as the imperial capital of the Ottoman Empire. Before this, it had been governed by several dynasties, with astonishing histories, including the Byzantine Empire established in 330, which later named the city Constantinople after Emperor Constantine. In 1453, the city fell to Turkish invaders, marking the beginning of a dynasty that dominated for over six centuries, serving as a critical bridge between Europe and the Middle East.
By the turn of the 20th century, as Turkey began experiencing significant political turmoil, the Ottoman Empire was in decline. This period, known as the Ottoman Contraction, was marked by violence and mass migrations, resulting in millions losing their lives during a turbulent time in the region.
As a result, by the early 20th century, Turkey had firmly established itself as an Islamic territory, steeped in a multifaceted history. Thus, the presence of Islamic architecture in the portrayal of Istanbul within Lazarus is not unexpected. However, the challenge arises not from the architectural styles but from the lack of recognizable landmarks or historical sites in the series. Istanbul’s unique position at the crossroads of Europe and Asia has endowed it with diverse architectural influences, yet the representation in Lazarus feels more like an abstract notion of the city rather than its true form.
The Importance of Accurate Representation
The Impact of Misrepresentation
While Lazarus incorporates modern futuristic elements throughout its narrative, the artistic license taken with Istanbul results in a sequestered representation of a city rich with history. Although the futuristic buildings serve as a backdrop, the absence of recognizable monuments, like the Hagia Sophia or the Galata Tower, detracts from the authenticity. Instead, what the audience encounters is a generalized representation that overlooks the city’s distinct cultural and historical markers.
Furthermore, critical geographical features, such as the Sea of Marmara or the Bosporus Strait, are notably absent, further enhancing the sense that this version of Istanbul is merely an Orientalized interpretation of a city steeped in complexity. Viewers express a longing for a thoughtful and comprehensive portrayal of Istanbul — one that genuinely captures its culture and pays homage to its intricate past. The need for precise representations of spaces with rich and contentious histories in entertainment media is paramount.
In the series, there is a mention of political unrest surrounding Deniz Skinner’s life when he was 12, hinting at a significant albeit unexplored backdrop. In 2008, when Skinner would have experienced his formative years, Turkey faced political turmoil, marked by election controversies and governmental crackdowns. Such contextual historical elements could have enriched the narrative and informed the audience about the environment that shaped the character without compromising the entertainment value.
In conclusion, viewers are looking for a deeper engagement and articulation of cultures in media representations. An inaccurate portrayal of such an iconic location as Istanbul ultimately diminishes the story’s authenticity and connection to reality. A thorough visit and genuine investment in understanding the cultural details could greatly enhance the overall perception and reception of narratives that intersect with international locations.
For a more comprehensive understanding of Istanbul’s historical and political context, consider exploring these resources: Britannica, Dr. Alpay, S. Turkish Politics in 2008, Human Rights Watch, and Alex McDonald’s 2019 article “Ergenekon: The bizarre case that shaped modern Turkey”.