Description
Book SynopsisEngland and the 1966 World Cup presents a cultural analysis of what is considered a key 'moment of modernity' in the nation's post-war history. Regarded as having an importance beyond its primary sporting purpose, the World Cup in England is examined within the complexity of the cultural, social and political changes that characterised the mid-1960s. Yet, although addressing the importance of non-sport related connections, the book maintains a focus on football, discussing it as a 'cultural form' and presenting an original perspective on the aesthetic accomplishment in football tactics by England's manager, Alf Ramsey.
The study considers the World Cup in relation to the cup tradition, England as the World Cup host nation, the England squad and masculinity, the modernism of England's manager Alf Ramsey, design and commercial aspects of the World Cup, a critical engagement within existing academic accounts, and an examination of how England&
Table of Contents
1. This is England '66: an introduction
2. The Cup tradition and England 1966
3. When football first came home: the World Cup in England
4. Alf Ramsey and the importance of being earnest: masculinity, modernity and the 1966 World Cup squad
5. Wingless wondering: modernism and the Ramsey 'system'
6. 'Out of time': the World Cup and 1960s culture
7. 'Tomorrow never knows': the mythology of England's World Cup victory
8. 'An unforgettable day': memories of England's World Cup victory
9. That was the World Cup that was
Bibliography
Index
