Bakhtinian carnivalization on grotesque images from Hard Rock e Heavy Metal.

Abstract

The language of Rock has the nature of parody, allegory, carnival and imagery. A typology of image content is obtained through the concept of carnivalization as stated by Mikhail Bakhtin, and by means of it, this text analyses the use and significance of pictures containing grotesque, physical deformities, monsterized types in the visual language of Hard Rock and Heavy Metal worlds. The presence and function of the skull and demon are included and appraised in their connection respectively to death and hell as illustrative factors. The theoretical fundaments are enhanced with the contributions from Vilém Flusser and Junito de Souza Brandão. The stigma
of the rebel behavior from Hard Rock and Heavy Metal spreads and reinforces their influence with the steady popularization of these musical genders – which have been enthusiastically portrayed through vigorous imagery appeals – as a consequence of the bands’ marketing staffs always sustaining, in visual support, linkages to rule breach and search for liberty. Image reading is empowered through elements such as laugh, grotesque view of the human body and obsene gestures.