Date Thesis Awarded

4-2024

Access Type

Honors Thesis -- Access Restricted On-Campus Only

Degree Name

Bachelors of Arts (BA)

Department

Anthropology

Advisor

Brad Weiss

Committee Members

Andrea Wright

Arthur Knight

Abstract

The discourse around "canon" has undoubtedly shifted from its earlier meanings. In online fan spaces, canon ties into ideas of authority, storytelling, and dynamics between officials and fans. I argue, through a digital ethnography of the League of Legends fandom, this discourse demonstrates a reciprocal relationship which legitimizes official authority but also provides fan gifts. Dissatisfaction and complaints are integral to this reciprocal dynamic, rather than signs of instability or acrimony. I also argue that this dynamic cannot be changed by officials without replacing the reciprocal benefits fans receive from it. These themes of authority, legitimization, and popular consensus are not only important for understanding digital fan spaces, but also for understanding politics, ethnic identity, and postmodern theory in our digital age.

Download

Share Feedback

On-Campus Access Only

Share

COinS