A Genealogical Study of Stuart Hall’s Cultural Theory

As one of the most important figures of founding, developing and spreading Birmingham School, and as the thinking epitome of the school, Hall’s thoughts are no doubt full of richness and thickness. The study of Hall’s genealogy of cultural theory should be highlighted. “Cultural Hegemony” and “Theory of Articulation” are the two key themes of developing Hall’s thoughts, which are closely coherent and cohesive and also the relation of succession and development. The thoughts have undergone stages and cultural changes of enlightenment, beginning, construction, development and spread, and extension. Hall’s theories and practical criticism are also organic integration. Thus, studying Hall is of significance to examining Birmingham School and the whole cultural studies.