Benjamin "mechanical Reproduction" Theoretical Research

The subject of the thesis is the Mechanical Reproduction Theory of Benjamin's modern art thoughts, mainly approaching the series changes of traditional art theory from the mechanical reproducting art. Substantially the Mechanical Reproduction Theory uses a technical view to explain the deep change of art in modern society. "Mechanical" in Benjamin's text means technology containing both material appliance using in the process of producing art and duplicating means of modern art. On the bases of domestic study of Benjamin's modern art, this thesis analyses Mechanical Reproduction on two connected but uncoincided latitudes: the using of mechanic in the form of modern art such as photography represents that technology has become an inner factor of art. Besides, the adjustability of the film break up the traditional notion of organic unity and the important status of camera in film highlight the material factor in art. Duplication represents the particular existence of modern art. According it Benjamin distinguished modern art from traditional art and point out that duplicating means changes the existence of oneness of traditional which making the art's aura disappeared and breaking up the independent beauty of art. Modern art based on the modern technology duplicates the real world accurately exposing a extremely true appearance of the world and changes the relation of art and world. Further researching Benjamin's Mechanical Reproduction Theory can help us better understand the current mass culture. Also it have a profound significance to the culture industry.