The Counterculture in Greenwich Village in the 1950s and 1960s

The subject of my thesis is one of New York City's most famous neighbourhoods, Greenwich Village, often referred to by locals as simply “the Village”. I examine the most remarkable cultural events, movements and institutions which made the Village legendary and which contributed to its establishment as one of the most iconic places all over the United States. I elaborate on the influential cultural movements, such as, the Beat Generation, the folk revival and the three very important institutions — The Living Theatre, the Village Voice and the Judson Memorial Church. Throughout my study I aim to concentrate on finding the main factors that contributed, formed and further developed the bohemian character of the neighborhood. Based on my research I decided to write about the events of the 1950s and the 1960s because this was the most productive phase of Greenwich Village artistically, as well as, socially and politically. I intend to provide a reader a more inside view into the artistic life of Greenwich Village in the 1950s and 60s. My goal with this work is to contribute to the long-established and rich history, as well as, the subcultures of the Village.MSc/MAAmerikanisztikaB