Podcasts > The Broski Report with Brittany Broski > I Would’ve Slayed as a Victorian Woman

I Would’ve Slayed as a Victorian Woman

By Brittany Broski

Delve into the rich tapestry of Victorian London with Brittany Broski in an episode of "The Broski Report with Brittany Broski" that will transport you to an era of intrigue and industrial marvel. Broski's fascination with the historical authenticity portrayed in films like the "Sherlock Holmes" series is palpable as she examines the painstaking efforts to recreate the period’s grandiosity. Through her vivid descriptions, listeners can envision the foggy streets, hear the bellow of newsboys, and appreciate the complexities of being a woman amidst the dawn of suffrage and shifting societal norms.

Meanwhile, in a contrasting reflection on contemporary life, Broski tackles the stark reality of phone addiction and its impact on social etiquette. With a thoughtful, critical eye, she discusses the challenge of maintaining decorum while our devices clamor for attention, undermining even the most personal of interactions. Her candid thoughts on operating vehicles undistracted and keeping technology in check during conversations shed light on the essential demand for a symbiotic relationship with our screens—prioritizing human connection in an increasingly digital world. Join Brittany Broski as she navigates the dichotomies of past and present, inspiring us to find balance and mindful awareness in our daily lives.

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I Would’ve Slayed as a Victorian Woman

This is a preview of the Shortform summary of the Jan 23, 2024 episode of the The Broski Report with Brittany Broski

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I Would’ve Slayed as a Victorian Woman

1-Page Summary

Victorian London as Historical Setting

Brittany Broski expresses her enthusiasm for Victorian London's depiction in films such as the "Sherlock Holmes" series with Robert Downey Jr. The historical accuracy and the appeal of the timeframe stand out as integral elements of the narrative. Broski admires the dedication to period correctness, specifically in the areas of costume and set design, and highlights an expert's involvement to ensure authenticity in Downey Jr.'s performance.

The period's distinctive society and fashion, especially encapsulated by the grandiosity of the Industrial Revolution and certain comical elements like children selling newspapers, are aspects Broski finds delightfully whimsical. The character of Sherlock Holmes is revered for his acute observational skills and deductive reasoning. Broski praises Holmes for noticing minute details and deducing information from subtle cues, which others would typically miss. Her reflections not only honor the historical setting and the character's intellectual prowess but also contemplate the personal implications of existing within that time, particularly focusing on women's suffrage and societal boundaries.

Social Etiquette and Phone/Technology Addiction

Brittany Broski discusses the influence of phone addiction on modern social etiquette, emphasizing the negative consequences of technology mismanagement. She identifies the issue of phones disrupting dinner engagements, driving, and personal conversations. Broski sees keeping phones face-down at dinner as a breach of decorum, thinking it implies that the device's potential notifications are of higher priority than the people present.

The dangers of texting and driving are a major concern for Broski, who practices cautious behavior to avoid phone usage when operating a vehicle. She stresses the importance of full attention to the road and the risks imposed not just by the individual's practices but also by friends who may engage in similar distractions.

Lastly, Broski laments the way phone usage can detract from face-to-face interactions. She views the act of turning to a phone during conversations as a roadblock to genuine connection and understanding, expressing the challenging nature of addressing such behavior without offending others. Her insights call for a balanced approach to technology, where real-life interactions are given precedence over digital interruptions.

1-Page Summary

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Brittany Broski, whose real name is Brittany Alexis Tomlinson, is an American social media personality, YouTuber, and comedian known for her viral TikTok videos. She gained fame for a video of her trying kombucha for the first time. Broski has since ventured into hosting podcasts and a YouTube talk show, showcasing her meme-focused humor and pop culture insights. She is recognized as one of TikTok's prominent figures and has a background in theater and communications, graduating from Texas A&M University.
  • The "Sherlock Holmes" series with Robert Downey Jr. consists of movies where Downey Jr. portrays the famous detective Sherlock Holmes. These films are known for their action-packed and modern take on the classic character created by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. Downey Jr.'s portrayal brings a charismatic and eccentric flair to the role, blending Holmes' brilliant mind with physical prowess in solving mysteries. The series is set in Victorian London, showcasing the detective's investigative skills in a visually captivating and dynamic way.
  • The Industrial Revolution was a period of significant economic and technological change that began in Great Britain in the 18th century. It involved the shift from manual labor to machine-based manufacturing, leading to increased production and population growth. Innovations like steam power and mechanized factories transformed industries, with textiles being a key sector. This era marked a pivotal moment in history, revolutionizing how goods were produced and shaping the modern world.
  • Women's suffrage is the right of women to vote in elections, a movement that aimed to secure voting rights for women. It was a significant part of the broader struggle for women's rights and equality in society. Women's suffrage campaigns varied in intensity and success across different countries and regions. The fight for women's suffrage often involved advocacy, protests, and legislative changes to ensure women had the same voting rights as men.
  • Social etiquette encompasses the expected and accepted behaviors in polite society, reflecting norms and conventions within a particular social group or class. It involves practices like politeness, respect, and consideration for others in various social situations. Etiquette guides interactions, communication, and conduct to maintain harmony and mutual understanding among individuals. Understanding and following social etiquette helps individuals navigate social settings with grace and respect.
  • Decorum, in the context of social behavior, relates to following accepted norms and manners in various situations. It involves behaving appropriately and respectfully based on societal expectations and settings. Decorum guides individuals on how to conduct themselves in a manner that is considered fitting and proper. It encompasses actions, speech, and gestures that align with the expected standards of conduct.
  • Distracted driving is when a driver engages in activities that divert their attention from the road, increasing the risk of accidents. This can include texting, eating, adjusting the radio, or any action that takes focus away from driving. Distractions are categorized into visual (taking eyes off the road), manual (taking hands off the wheel), and cognitive (mental distractions). These distractions significantly impact driving safety and can lead to severe consequences.

Counterarguments

  • While historical accuracy is often praised, some argue that films like "Sherlock Holmes" take creative liberties that can distort the public's understanding of history.
  • The romanticization of the Victorian era can overlook the harsh realities of life during that time, such as extreme poverty, child labor, and the lack of rights for women and the working class.
  • The depiction of whimsical elements like children selling newspapers might inadvertently glamorize child labor, which was a serious issue in Victorian London.
  • Some critics might suggest that the character of Sherlock Holmes, while brilliant, can perpetuate the trope of the "lone genius," which may overshadow the importance of collaboration and community in problem-solving.
  • The focus on women's suffrage and societal boundaries in Victorian London could be expanded to include a broader discussion of the various social reform movements of the time.
  • The criticism of phone addiction and its impact on social etiquette might not account for the positive aspects of technology, such as staying connected with distant loved ones or having access to emergency services.
  • Some might argue that keeping phones face-down at dinner could be a sign of respect, showing that the person is trying to minimize distractions to engage with those present.
  • While texting and driving is dangerous, some might point out that modern technology, like hands-free devices and voice commands, can mitigate these risks.
  • The view that phone usage during conversations is a barrier to connection might not consider that for some individuals, such as those with social anxiety, phones can serve as a coping mechanism.
  • Advocating for a balanced approach to technology might not acknowledge the different ways technology is integrated into people's lives, careers, and social structures, which can make it challenging to set universal standards for etiquette.

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I Would’ve Slayed as a Victorian Woman

Victorian London as Historical Setting

Brittany Broski expresses a deep appreciation for the way Victorian London is depicted in films, particularly the adaptation of "Sherlock Holmes" featuring Robert Downey Jr. The rich historical setting serves as the perfect backdrop for storytelling that intertwines period accuracy with the appeal of the time.

Detailed Attention to Accuracy in Costumes, Sets, etc.

In Robert Downey Jr.'s Sherlock Holmes films, the costume and set designers received high praise from Broski for their excellent work in capturing the essence of Victorian London. Broski notes that a Sherlock Holmes expert was even brought in to ensure that Downey Jr.'s portrayal of the detective was true to the period.

Appeal of Time Period Campiness

Broski is fascinated by the distinct society and fashion of Victorian London, with its big dresses and the grandeur of the Industrial Revolution. She humorously envisions children selling newspapers, uttering phrases such as "Penny for the paper" and "Extra, extra, read all about it," capturing the whimsical campiness of the era.

Sherlock Holmes' Observational Skills

Noticing Details Others Miss

Further delving into Sherlock Holmes' character, Broski admires his curse of knowledge as he is always the smartest person in the room. Her recounting of a scene indicates Holmes' keen observation, noting everything around him that others would overlook. From a busboy stealing a spoon to the concealed weapons of others, nothing is missed by Holmes.

Deducing Meaning from Subtle Cues ...

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Victorian London as Historical Setting

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Brittany Broski, whose real name is Brittany Alexis Tomlinson, is an American social media personality, YouTuber, and comedian known for her viral TikTok videos. She gained fame for a video of her trying kombucha for the first time. Broski has since become a prominent figure on TikTok and has hosted various podcasts and a YouTube talk show. She is recognized for her meme-focused humor and online presence.
  • The "Sherlock Holmes" adaptation featuring Robert Downey Jr. is a film series that reimagines the iconic detective character Sherlock Holmes in a more action-oriented and adventurous light. Robert Downey Jr. portrays Sherlock Holmes as a brilliant and eccentric detective, known for his keen observational and deduction skills. The films blend elements of mystery, humor, and period drama, set against the backdrop of Victorian London. This adaptation offers a fresh take on the classic character, appealing to both fans of the original stories and new audiences.
  • Victorian London's depiction in films often involves meticulous attention to historical accuracy in costumes, sets, and overall ambiance to transport viewers back to the 19th-century era. This setting serves as a rich backdrop for storytelling, blending period authenticity with the allure of the time, as seen in adaptations like the "Sherlock Holmes" films starring Robert Downey Jr. The portrayal of Victorian London in cinema captures the societal norms, fashion, and technological advancements of the era, creating a visually captivating and immersive experience for audiences. Filmmakers often collaborate with experts to ensure that the depiction of Victorian London aligns with historical records and cultural nuances, enhancing the authenticity and appeal of the narrative.
  • Victorian London society and fashion were characterized by strict social norms, elaborate clothing, and a stark divide between social classes. The Victorian era saw a rise in industrialization, leading to changes in fashion with women wearing large, voluminous dresses and men donning tailored suits. The fashion of the time reflected societal values, emphasizing modesty and propriety, especially for women. Additionally, the Industrial Revolution brought about advancements in textile production, allowing for more intricate and varied clothing designs.
  • The Industrial Revolution in Victorian London marked a significant period of technological advancement and economic growth. It brought about the mechanization of industries, leading to urbanization and the rise of factories. This era saw a shift from agrarian-based economies to industrialized societies, impacting various aspects of life including work, transportation, and social structures. The In ...

Counterarguments

  • While the attention to detail in costumes and sets is commendable, some critics argue that films often prioritize visual spectacle over historical accuracy, potentially misrepresenting the era.
  • Consulting a Sherlock Holmes expert ensures fidelity to the character but does not necessarily guarantee the portrayal of Victorian London is historically accurate in all aspects.
  • The romanticization of Victorian London can overshadow the harsh realities of the era, such as extreme poverty, child labor, and the oppressive conditions of the working class.
  • The whimsical portrayal of children selling newspapers, while charming, may inadvertently downplay the exploitation and difficult lives faced by child laborers during the Victorian era.
  • The depiction of Sherlock Holmes' observational skills, while entertaining, can sometimes stretch believability and may not always align with realistic human capabilities.
  • ...

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I Would’ve Slayed as a Victorian Woman

Social Etiquette and Phone/Technology Addiction

Brittany Broski offers remarks on the impacts of phone addiction on social etiquette, citing various situations that highlight a need for better practices when it comes to technology use in social settings.

Phones Face-Down When Dining with Others

Broski considers it rude to have phones out at all when dining with others, whether face-up or face-down on the table. She views this behavior as an indication that the phone—and potential incoming messages—is more important than the present company, essentially not providing someone with your full, undivided attention.

No Texting While Driving

Broski also touches upon the hazards of texting while driving, including her own efforts to avoid using her phone behind the wheel. She’s vigilant with this rule, particularly when stopped at red lights or when urgent situations might tempt her to check her phone, and she’s even more conscious when she has passengers. Additionally, she describes feeling scared when her friends text and drive at high speeds and the discomfort it causes, often leading her to argue against it. She underscores the unpredictability of other drivers and the need to remain alert at all times.

Stay Engaged in Real Life Conversations

Finally, Broski finds it disrespectful when people turn to their pho ...

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Social Etiquette and Phone/Technology Addiction

Additional Materials

Clarifications

  • Brittany Broski, also known as Kombucha Girl, gained fame through a viral video in 2019 where she tried kombucha for the first time. She has since become a popular content creator on platforms like TikTok, known for her humor and relatable content. Broski often shares her thoughts on various topics, including social etiquette and technology use, as seen in the text provided.
  • The negative impact of phone usage on social interactions can lead to reduced attention and engagement in face-to-face conversations, hindering the building of meaningful connections. It can create feelings of disrespect and disconnection when individuals prioritize their phones over the people they are interacting with. Excessive phone use during social settings can contribute to a sense of isolation and detachment from the present moment, affecting the quality of relationships and interactions. This behavior may convey a lack of interest or investment in the current social environment, potentially straining interpersonal dynamics. ...

Counterarguments

  • Phones on the table can be a practical necessity for some individuals who need to be available for urgent calls, such as parents with young children, medical professionals, or those with family emergencies.
  • In certain professions, being on-call or quickly responsive to messages is a requirement, and having a phone visible during a meal might be a compromise between social etiquette and professional obligations.
  • While texting and driving is undeniably dangerous, some might argue that the use of hands-free technology or voice commands can allow for safe and responsible communication without manual texting or handling of the phone.
  • There are situations where using a phone during a conversation might be necessary or beneficial, such as looking up relevant information to contribute to the discussion or taking notes to remember important points.
  • Some people may have social ...

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