A Simmelian reading of Goffman

The sociologies of Georg Sirrurel (1858-1918) arid Erving Goffman (1922-1982) are compared and contrasted in order to present a Sirnrnelian interpretation of Goffnian. It is proposed that this is one appropriate way of lendinq coherence to Goffman's work and dealing with some of its interpretive difficulties. The first two chapters trace the development of the work of Sirr!mel and Goffman and address the issue of its systernaticity. Chapter three considers certain substantive affinities and correspondences. The formal method employed by Simrr'el and Goffman is discussed in chapter four. Methodoloqical auestions are also pursued in chapter five which reviews aspects of Simirel's and Goffman's rhetoric. Chapter six compares their views on the nature of the individual. A case study applying their analytical apparatuses to aspects of game show htnrour is appended. Throughout, the aim is to demonstrate the relevance of one of socioloqy's major classical thinkers for an understanding of a leading contemporary