Media, Identity, and Cultural Narratives: A Comprehensive Review of Journalism and Literary Studies

Abstract

The relationship between media, identity, and cultural narratives has emerged as a pivotal area of inquiry in contemporary journalism and literary studies. In a globalized and digitized world, media and literary forms do not merely convey information or stories—they actively construct, negotiate, and disseminate cultural identities across diverse social, political, and economic contexts. This review article examines these intersections, drawing on interdisciplinary scholarship from media studies, cultural studies, and literary theory to analyze how narratives shape perceptions of self and society.
The study explores the theoretical foundations that inform understandings of identity, including cultural representation, postcolonial theory, feminist theory, and critical media studies. It also investigates the role of media platforms—from traditional print and broadcast outlets to social media and digital news portals—in mediating cultural narratives and influencing public discourse. Narrative journalism and literary practices are considered as complementary avenues through which cultural identities are expressed, challenged, and transformed.