Women at the Modern Olympic Games: An Interdisciplinary Look at American Culture

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of the modern Olympic Games on women in American culture by examining the cultural roles of women and the meaning of their participation in this cultural phenomenon. The study of women at the Olympics delineates critical themes in women's history, sport studies, American culture studies, and material culture. The analysis of women's roles in the Olympics indicates the interrelationships between gender, the sporting culture, and American culture. This paper also suggests areas for further scholarly investigation, based on an interdisciplinary perspective on women, the Olympic Games, and American culture.