What is popular culture? How does popular culture communicate with us through media? Out of what historical, commercial, and creative contexts does popular culture emerge? Communication & Popular Culture Coursebook presents an introduction to U.S. popular culture, with an emphasis on its forms and functions in our society. This volume focuses on four key areas—text, industry, historical context, and audience—that construct popular culture's meanings in order to empower students with the critical skills to understand cultural texts. By considering how popular culture has both shaped and reflected broader social power dynamics in the United States, students gain unique insight into modern life, as well as tools to navigate its increasing complexity.